Rayo Majadahonda president Enrique Vedia has recalled having Manchester City midfielder Rodri as a junior player.
In Spain, Rodri is being celebrated as the 'best midfielder in the world'.
Vedia told Marca: "I remember that in that batch of soccer players where the Hernández brothers and other soccer players who have played in the First and Second Division were, Rodri was a kid who stood out. He was someone important.
"Those who are good are more noticeable when they are little; the difference is seen more. Although nobody would think that this 11-year-old boy was worth 80 million euros a few years later."