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Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has heaped praise on Rodri after the midfielder’s high-profile move from Manchester City to Barcelona this year. The national team boss proudly likened his midfield leader to Lionel Messi, and also used the moment to pay a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Argentine following his recent retirement from international football.

Rodri’s spectacular move

Rodri’s exit from Manchester City to sign for Barcelona has become one of the standout transfers of 2026. The star midfielder joined his new club after a brilliant individual campaign at the recent World Cup, where his dominant displays saw him win the prestigious Golden Ball.

Spain eventually met Argentina in the tournament final, a game in which Rodri underlined his standing as the leading player in his role. After the switch to Catalonia, his international manager has now openly backed the midfield star to flourish alongside several of his La Roja team-mates.

‘The Messi of Spanish football’

Speaking to Radio Marca, De la Fuente was quick to stress just how important the former City star is for both club and country. The coach brushed aside any doubts over his adjustment to a new domestic setting, insisting that his quality rises above any tactical structure.

“It will be easier for him to adapt, as Rodri is the Messi of Spanish football, so he will adapt well to any team, in any circumstance,” De la Fuente said. “He is the best in the world in his position.”

The manager also made clear his happiness at seeing top domestic talent return to Spain’s top division. He added: “What I celebrate is that these great footballers are in La Liga, because it makes the league greater, because it makes the best players in the world, who are our footballers, the Spaniards, compete here in Spanish clubs. I would welcome it if many who are still abroad could return here to demonstrate the capacity, talent, and great footballing class they possess.”

End of an era for Messi

While celebrating Rodri’s move at club level, De la Fuente also spoke about the stunning news surrounding Messi. The legendary forward confirmed that he is stepping away from Argentina duty, which means the 2026 World Cup final against Spain was his final competitive appearance in an Albiceleste shirt.

De la Fuente delivered a glowing tribute to the record-breaking attacker, recognising his lasting impact on the game. “I, out of admiration, knowledge, and gratitude from someone who, like me, loves football, to a footballing figure who is a legend,” he said. “Normally when time passes and someone retires, one is more capable of valuing what someone has achieved, but that won't happen with Messi.”

Domestic focus takes priority

With Messi completely absent from the upcoming September and October international windows, the forward will now shape the closing stages of his club career on his own terms. De la Fuente acknowledged that shift, saying: “He will still continue in active football, he has left the national team, but he is still going to add to his resume, and when he finally leaves football - which he will leave when he wants - football will not leave him, and then we will realise the footballing dimension of a player whose numbers will be very difficult for anyone to surpass.”

Meanwhile, Rodri will focus on cementing his place as a starter for Hansi Flick’s side. Barcelona fans will hope that his outstanding international form carries smoothly into domestic success as the new season gathers pace.