Rodri, Spain's World Cup Captain, to Have Surgery After Tournament

Rodri, the captain of Spain and a key midfielder for Manchester City, is set to undergo back surgery on Monday, just days after leading his country to victory in the 2026 World Cup. His new coach at Manchester City, Enzo Maresca, confirmed the news, stating that the player requires a period of rest and recovery. "As you have said, he will have surgery on Monday. He needs vacation and rest, a good recovery and then he will return with us," Maresca told reporters.

Maresca, who succeeded Pep Guardiola at the helm of Manchester City, also addressed persistent rumors linking Rodri with a move to Real Madrid. The coach characterized these reports as simple "speculation." He acknowledged that Rodri's stellar performance, which earned him the Golden Ball as the best player of the 2026 World Cup, naturally attracts attention from top clubs worldwide. "It is totally normal. Spain won the World Cup and Rodri was the best player of the tournament, or one of the best. All coaches would want to have him on their team, because he is a great player," Maresca added.

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As you have said, he will have surgery on Monday. He needs vacation and rest, a good recovery and then he will return with us.

Spanish media have reported that Rodri desires a transfer to Real Madrid, with the club reportedly prioritizing the 30-year-old midfielder for their midfield. Previously, Rodri had commented on the possibility of playing for Real Madrid, stating that his past association with rival club Atlético de Madrid would not prevent him from joining Los Blancos in the future. This development comes after Spain's triumph in what is described as the "most difficult World Cup in history."

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It is totally normal. Spain won the World Cup and Rodri was the best player of the tournament, or one of the best. All coaches would want to have him on their team, because he is a great player.