Rodri is set for back surgery, confirmed by Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca, who also dismissed transfer speculation linking the player to Real Madrid.
New Delhi, India Jul 24, 2026 ALN: World Cup winner Rodri will have surgery on a back issue on Monday, new Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca has confirmed.
The 30-year-old Spain captain guided his country to World Cup glory last week and was named the Golden Ball winner as player of the tournament. His performance on the global stage has drawn attention, especially in light of his recent struggles at the club level. While Rodri's success with Spain is a testament to his talent and resilience, it underscores the challenges he has faced in recent seasons.
In the previous two seasons, Rodri's contributions to Manchester City were significantly hampered due to injuries. An anterior cruciate ligament injury sidelined him for the majority of the 2024-25 campaign, a period during which City relied heavily on their squad depth to maintain competitive form in both domestic and European competitions. Furthermore, various setbacks last season meant he was often unavailable, forcing the coaching staff to adjust their strategies and player selections in crucial matches.
The Ballon d'Or winner was back to his best at the World Cup, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and lead his national team to victory. However, speaking at his first news conference since being appointed City boss, Maresca stated that Rodri now needs surgery followed by recuperation. This announcement raises questions about how his absence will affect Manchester City’s plans for the upcoming season.
"Now, [he has] surgery on Monday. Then he needs a holiday, he needs to rest and recover and then he will be back with us," the Italian coach said. The timeline for recovery following back surgery can vary significantly, and while Rodri's talent is undeniable, his return to form post-surgery will be closely monitored by both the coaching staff and fans alike.
Maresca did not elaborate on when Rodri might return, though he dismissed speculation surrounding the Spaniard's future at Etihad Stadium following reports linking him with a move to Real Madrid. The prospect of a transfer to one of the biggest clubs in the world adds another layer of complexity to the situation. "Around big players, there are always speculations, so I am not worried about that," he said. This response reflects the reality of modern , where high-profile players are often the subjects of transfer rumors, particularly following standout performances in major tournaments.
"I think it is normal, also because they [Spain] won the World Cup and because he is one of the best players. I think every manager wants to have Rodri because he is a top player." The admiration for Rodri within the community is palpable, and his ability to influence games makes him a sought-after asset for any team.
Regarding other players still to return, Maresca mentioned that he expected to have them in the squad three or four days before City faces Premier League champions Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday, 16 August. The Community Shield serves as a traditional curtain-raiser for the English season, and it will be critical for City to field a strong team as they aim to assert their dominance in domestic competition.
In his first news conference since succeeding Pep Guardiola last month, Maresca found himself fielding questions about the Catalan, who won 20 trophies in his 10 years at the club. Guardiola's tenure was marked by tactical innovation and unprecedented success, making the transition to a new manager a significant challenge. Maresca, who was Guardiola's assistant during the 2022-23 Treble-winning season, understands the weight of expectation that comes with the role.
"I want to say it is a privilege because it's the reason why the club decided to go for me, that is a privilege," he said. His acknowledgment of Guardiola's influence on his career and the club's recent history highlights the respect he has for his predecessor while also emphasizing his own vision for the future. "I have said many times, I consider Pep the best coach in the world in the last 20-25 years. It is a challenge [to replace him]."
Maresca acknowledged the challenge of arriving at a club that has had just three managers in 16 years. This stability has contributed to Manchester City’s rise as a powerhouse in both English and European . "That is not normal and has not happened often," he said. "I am confident that we can continue to do a great job and continue to do the job that has been done in the last 14, 15 years since Roberto Mancini was here." His confidence is rooted in his familiarity with the club's structure and the personnel, which he believes will aid in a smooth transition.
"I know the organization quite well and the people inside the club from years ago. The structure understands to give time for everything." This statement reflects a broader understanding of the importance of stability and patience in management, especially when building a team capable of competing at the highest levels.
"Since Manchester City contacted me, I had no doubt about joining this fantastic club." His enthusiasm for the role indicates a readiness to embrace the challenges ahead while also capitalizing on the club's recent successes.
Maresca hinted that there were "a few things to do" in the transfer window but would not be drawn on the futures of players including goalkeeper James Trafford, who has been linked with a move away from the club, and returning midfielder Jack Grealish, who spent last season on loan at Everton but is back in training with City. The transfer window is a critical period for clubs, as they look to strengthen their squads and address any weaknesses from the previous season. The decisions made during this time can significantly impact the team's performance in the upcoming campaign.
As Manchester City prepares for the new season, the health of key players like Rodri will be paramount. His surgery and subsequent recovery will be closely watched, and his potential absence could influence Maresca's tactical decisions as he aims to maintain the club's competitive edge. The combination of a new managerial approach and the need to navigate the challenges of player health and transfer speculation will define the upcoming season for Manchester City.
To learn more about the latest developments in Football (Soccer), stay updated with our exclusive reports and analyses on AiLensNews.
