Rodri ‘to undergo’ back surgery with no return date set | OneFootball

Rodri is to undergo back surgery with no timetable for his return, according to The Athletic.

The news arrives only days after a career high. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner captained Spain to the 2026 World Cup, featuring in all eight matches under Luis de la Fuente.

Growing into the tournament, he became pivotal in Spain’s midfield, controlling tempo, aiding circulation and providing defensive balance.

Manchester City have not commented, and the absence of a recovery date suggests there will be no rush to bring him back. The back problem is the latest in a run of fitness issues in recent years.

Rodri sustained an anterior cruciate ligament rupture in September 2024 and missed most of 2024-25. After returning, hamstring and groin complaints limited him to 33 appearances this campaign. In 2022-23, when City won the treble, he played 56 games.

Enzo Maresca must now find dependable solutions to start well at the Etihad. The Italian follows Pep Guardiola, who shaped a remarkable decade in Manchester.

Rodri’s contract runs to July 2027 and there is no clear sign of an extension. Talks had been planned after the World Cup, and the report also said Real Madrid do not currently intend to bid for him.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo