Spain's World Cup hero Rodri set for back surgery: Report

Spain's World Cup hero Rodri is set for another spell on the sidelines after reports emerged that the Manchester City midfielder will undergo surgery on a back injury, with the Premier League club yet to determine when he will return to action.

The Spain captain, who won the Golden Ball after inspiring his country to its first FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph since 2010 earlier this summer, now faces another spell on the sidelines following two injury-hit seasons at City.

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The 30-year-old started all eight matches of Spain's victorious World Cup campaign, completing a remarkable comeback after enduring fitness problems over the past two years.

Rodri's latest setback comes at a crucial stage of his career, with just one year remaining on his Manchester City contract. According to The Athletic, talks over a possible extension are expected after the World Cup, although the midfielder has yet to indicate any willingness to commit his future to the Premier League champions.

The Ballon d'Or winner has long been linked with a return to Spain, particularly with Real Madrid, and has previously admitted his desire to play in his homeland again before retiring. However, according to reports the Spanish giants are not planning a move for the midfielder.

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Rodri has struggled to rediscover his best form since suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in September 2024, an injury that sidelined him for almost the entire 2024-25 season. Hamstring and groin issues further hampered his comeback last season, limiting him to 33 appearances across all competitions, including just 17 Premier League starts.

Before his injury troubles, Rodri had established himself as one of City's most influential players, playing a pivotal role in Pep Guardiola's historic treble-winning campaign in 2022-23. He scored the decisive goal in City's 1-0 victory over Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final while making 56 appearances as the club also lifted the Premier League and FA Cup titles.

City have strengthened their midfield this summer with the £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, helping to soften the blow of Rodri's absence. However, uncertainty remains over the futures of Mateo Kovacic and Nico Gonzalez, while Bernardo Silva has already left the Etihad Stadium after his contract expired.

Manchester City will begin their 2026-27 Premier League campaign at home against Bournemouth on August 23, though Rodri's availability for the new season remains in doubt.