Manchester City issue club statement on Rodri | OneFootball

Rodri has undergone successful minor back surgery this week, Manchester City have confirmed in a club statement on Tuesday.

The Spain international remains at the centre of widespread media reports concerning his future at the Etihad Stadium, with Real Madrid believed to be optimistic about their chances of signing the Ballon d’Or winning midfielder this summer.

Rodri is entering into the final 12 months of his existing Manchester City contract, and whilst a lucrative renewal offer remains on the table in the North-West of England, there have been no indications that he would be willing to sign the deal.

Speaking during his first press conference as Manchester City manager, Enzo Maresca said on the club’s star defensive midfielder, “First of all, we have to say that around big players there is always speculation.

“So I’m not worried about that, it’s normal, also because they [Spain] won the World Cup – he is one of the best players.”

Maresca continued, “I think every manager wants to have Rodri, because he’s a top player. But now, surgery [on a back problem] on Monday, and then he needs holiday, he needs to rest, recovery, and then he will be back here with us.”

Man City confirm Rodri back surgery

Now, a new statement issued by the club on the FIFA World Cup-winning midfielder has been issued on Tuesday afternoon, reading, “Manchester City can confirm Rodri has undergone successful minor back surgery.”

The statement continued, “The midfielder had been feeling discomfort for some time but has now undergone a procedure to address the issue and will now begin a short period of rehabilitation.

“Everyone at the club wishes him a speedy recovery and we will bring you updates regarding his rehabilitation.”

When could Rodri return to Man City training?

Rodri will be granted the longest holiday periods of all Manchester City players starring at the summer’s FIFA World Cup, having taken part in the entire competition – and ultimately emerging successful through their 1-0 win over Argentina in the Final.

Manager Enzo Maresca has stated that the remaining players will return in the week leading up to the FA Community Shield match against Arsenal on Sunday 16 August, which will likely include the club’s English contingent and Erling Haaland among others.

The Manchester Evening News are reporting that the back issue sustained by Rodri is only expected to keep him out of action for ‘a few weeks’ with the potential of a late-August return.

However, it remains to be seen how Rodri’s club future transpires between now and that expected return date, with Real Madrid seemingly insistent on doing a deal for the midfielder this summer after they secure RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande.