La Liga: Rodri apologises after criticism over Valencia remark

Barcelona midfielder Rodri has expressed regret over remarks he made to Barcelona teammates describing Valencia as "very weak" after being substituted during the 5-0 league victory over the La Liga strugglers. The 30-year-old reportedly said this to Barcelona players Pau Cubarsi and Raphinha while sitting on the bench. Despite the footage being audioless, broadcaster Movistar claimed Rodri lip-read his words as "They’re really weak.

They haven’t got past the halfway line." This led to criticism from Valencia fans and some Spanish media outlets, accusing Rodri of disrespecting the club. However, Rodri clarified his intention was not to mock Valencia but to express surprise at their performance. He apologized to Valencia captain Jose Gaya and the entire squad, emphasizing his words were an expression of surprise and not intended to disrespect the club.

Rodri also stated he wanted Valencia to return to its strong position in the league, despite acknowledging his comments might have been taken out of context.