Rodri could miss start of season after back injury may require surgery
Rodri faces an extended layoff with a back problem that may require surgery, a setback that is expected to rule the 30-year-old Manchester City midfielder out for the start of the season. The Spain captain enjoyed a return to form at the World Cup but now confronts a significant fitness issue following the tournament.
After two seasons hampered by injuries, Rodri re-established himself at the World Cup, captaining Spain to Sunday’s 1-0 final win over Argentina at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium and receiving the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. Those performances marked a sharp revival for the midfielder, yet the new back complaint threatens to interrupt his progress. The prospect of an operation has emerged as a possible course of action to address the problem. Club and medical staff will now have to assess the timeline and treatment options, with the start of the domestic campaign in mind.
The immediate implication is that Manchester City will begin the season without a central midfielder who played a pivotal role for both club and country. Rodri’s absence would deprive the team of his ball-winning, positional control and leadership qualities that were on display in the World Cup. The timing is particularly unfortunate given the midfielder’s restored form at the tournament, where he was widely recognised for his influence on Spain’s play.
For Rodri personally, the injury represents a reversal after a tournament that culminated in individual and collective success. Winning the Golden Ball affirmed his status as the competition’s standout performer, while captaining Spain to the title was the pinnacle of his international return. Now, attention will turn to treatment and recovery, and whether surgical intervention becomes necessary to resolve the back issue.
From a squad-management perspective, the situation will require Manchester City to consider alternatives in central midfield for the opening fixtures. Selection decisions and minutes management could be affected depending on the length of Rodri’s absence and the chosen medical plan. The club’s medical team will play a key role in determining whether a conservative rehabilitation approach is feasible or if surgery is the appropriate path.
The potential loss of Rodri at the season’s outset is a significant development for both player and club, interrupting the momentum he built at the World Cup. Confirmation of the treatment plan and expected return date will be awaited closely by Manchester City, Spain’s national setup and supporters. The coming days should clarify whether the midfielder will require an operation and how long he will be sidelined.