What happened: Rodri said it is not true he rejected Real Madrid because the club stayed away from his Ballon d'Or ceremony. He said their absence did not affect him at the time and called the night his special day. He added there is no point discussing those who were absent.

Why it matters: The denial addresses a lingering narrative tying the awards-night boycott to the transfer saga. It follows a summer in which Rodri repeatedly distanced himself from Real Madrid links amid stalled renewal talks.

What to watch: Further comment from either camp will show whether the link fades.