Rodri is set to face an extended period on the sidelines due to a back injury that may require surgery. The 30-year-old Manchester City midfielder recently shone at the World Cup, leading Spain to a 1-0 victory over Argentina and earning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.

This injury comes as a significant setback after two injury-plagued seasons. Rodri's troubles began with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during a 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in September 2024, which sidelined him for much of that season. Subsequent injuries at the FIFA Club World Cup in July 2025, along with hamstring and groin issues, limited him to just 17 Premier League matches last season.

With Rodri’s contract expiring next June, speculation surrounds his future at City. Although he has expressed a desire to return to Spain, particularly favoring a move to Real Madrid, no concrete offers have materialized yet. Enzo Maresca, City’s new manager, remains hopeful of retaining him.

Reflecting on his journey, Rodri stated, "For me, it’s been a very tough time. I just want the new generations to see my example as an opportunity. When you go down, you can rise again. This is my philosophy for my entire life. Of course, sometimes things go well, things go wrong, but always the positiveness." His resilience serves as an inspiration amid ongoing challenges.