According to Mundo Deportivo, Rooney has recalled that he had the opportunity to join Barcelona.

Rooney discussed this during his appearance on "The United Stand." He stated: "I really wanted to play for Barcelona. At that time, they lacked a traditional number nine. I felt I could easily integrate into that team and fit in perfectly. A transfer was indeed possible, but there were significant financial obstacles."

Previously, he specified when this occurred in an interview: "In 2010, I didn't want to renew my contract with Manchester United and requested to leave. At that time, three clubs offered me contracts: Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. I was mentally prepared to play in Spain, and negotiations had taken place."

"For two or three days, Real Madrid seemed most likely to reach an agreement with me, but in reality, I yearned more for Barcelona, imagining what it would be like to play alongside Messi, Iniesta, Xavi, and Busquets. In the end, I stayed at Manchester United, but that Barcelona team was incredibly strong; any player would aspire to play for them."

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