Rodri misses Barcelona’s Joan Gamper Trophy clash with Al Ahly after unveiling

Rodri, unveiled by Barcelona on Tuesday, did not feature in the club’s Joan Gamper Trophy match against Al Ahly because he is not currently fit, the club confirmed. The midfielder’s transfer from Manchester City had been finalised ahead of the exhibition game.

Barcelona completed the deal with City for Rodri and introduced the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner and World Cup Golden Ball recipient at his unveiling on Tuesday. Under Pep Guardiola, Rodri spent seven years at Manchester City and, according to the club account in the report, “won everything possible” there; Guardiola’s departure at the end of the 2025–26 campaign was also noted in the coverage. The Joan Gamper Trophy was played before Barcelona begin their domestic campaign at Elche on Sunday, and Al Ahly were described as the most successful team in Egypt.

Barcelona announced that Rodri is not currently fit and will miss the Joan Gamper Trophy fixture. The club said he is likely to need a few more games to return to full fitness and make his debut for his new side.

Earlier this summer there were rumours that the 30-year-old might have undergone back surgery following the World Cup, which the report said would probably prevent him from playing in the 2026–2027 season. The article also states he recently returned from surgery but adds that it “It’s not been confirmed yet.”

At his unveiling, Rodri addressed his fitness and readiness directly, saying: “I’m ready to play now,” he confidently asserted. He added: “The operation was nothing serious; it was an outpatient procedure.” He also said: “I hope to be able to train normally tomorrow [Wednesday]. Whatever the manager deems appropriate. I just need to finalize the transfer and get under Hansi’s orders as soon as possible.”

The report noted that in the annual exhibition match Rodri would not be at risk of being rushed back. It also said his comments will inspire a fervently enthusiastic fan base, who think the midfield player might be the final component needed for the Blaugrana to win the Champions League again.

Barcelona begin their domestic season at Elche on Sunday; the club’s report indicates Rodri will likely need several more matches to reach full fitness before making his competitive debut for Barcelona.