Rodri Questions Valencia’s Lack of Intensity Despite Barcelona’s Win

Barcelona midfielder Rodri was reportedly unimpressed by Valencia’s performance despite his side cruising to a 5-0 victory at Mestalla last weekend.

The match was particularly significant for Rodri, who made his first start for Barcelona since joining the Catalan club. The 30-year-old played until the 62nd minute and helped his team establish a commanding 3-0 lead before being substituted.

Rodri received applause from sections of the home crowd as he made his way off the pitch. However, cameras subsequently captured a conversation between the midfielder and Pau Cubarsi on the Barcelona bench, with the pair discussing Valencia’s performance.

According to footage from El Día Después, Rodri appeared surprised by the lack of intensity shown by the hosts. The Ballon d’Or winner reportedly questioned why Valencia appeared so passive and struggled to apply pressure, particularly after the interval.

“They were very lazy. Really, really lazy, and that’s bad. They didn’t even press or step beyond the defensive line in the second half,” Rodri was heard saying.

The conversation reportedly continued as Rodri asked about Valencia’s performances during the previous season. He appeared surprised by the situation surrounding Los Che, given the club’s stature and history within Spanish football.

Valencia have struggled to maintain their traditional standing in recent years, with the club enduring a period of instability under owner Peter Lim. Several high-profile players have departed, while the club have often struggled to replace them with reinforcements of comparable quality.

That decline has continued into the current campaign. Carlos Corberan’s side have taken just one point from their opening four matches, suffering three defeats in the process. Their difficult start has further raised concerns about the club’s competitive level and long-term direction.

For Rodri, Valencia’s performance at Mestalla appeared to underline those concerns. The Barcelona midfielder was particularly struck by their lack of pressing and intensity, despite playing in front of their home supporters.

Barcelona, meanwhile, had little trouble taking advantage of Valencia’s struggles. The emphatic 5-0 victory strengthened their position and highlighted the difference in confidence and quality between the two sides.

Rodri’s comments, though made privately on the bench, offer an intriguing perspective on Valencia’s current predicament. Once regarded as one of Spain’s most competitive clubs, Los Che now face the difficult task of rebuilding their identity and restoring the intensity that once made Mestalla one of the most intimidating venues in La Liga.