Spain captain Rodri could be facing another lengthy period away from football after reports claimed the midfielder is expected to undergo surgery for a back injury. The development comes shortly after the Manchester City star played a key role in Spain’s triumphant FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign.

Rodri was one of Spain’s standout performers throughout the tournament and was rewarded with the Golden Ball, recognising him as the best player of the World Cup. His consistency in midfield helped La Roja lift their second FIFA World Cup title after an impressive run across eight matches.

Rodri’s injury concerns continue

The latest setback adds to a difficult run of fitness issues for the Spanish international over the past two seasons. Rodri suffered ligament damage in September 2024 after an innocuous incident, an injury that ruled him out for almost the entire 2024-25 campaign. Even after returning to action, his comeback was disrupted by recurring hamstring and groin problems.

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Those fitness struggles restricted him to 33 appearances in all competitions last season, including 17 Premier League starts for Manchester City.

When Rodri returned to the pitch, he was unable to immediately rediscover the level that had made him one of the world’s leading midfielders. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola later acknowledged that the Spaniard had resumed playing earlier than ideal.

Real Madrid links gather momentum

According to the Daily Mail, Rodri’s latest injury comes at a significant moment in his club career, with only one year remaining on his Manchester City contract.

The report states that the 30-year-old is interested in a move back to Spain and is keen on joining Real Madrid. Following Spain’s World Cup success, support for such a transfer is reportedly growing.

Manchester City, meanwhile, have already strengthened their midfield options by signing Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest in a deal worth £116 million. The addition is expected to help cover for Rodri if he is sidelined for another extended period.

Transfer impact on Tchouameni and Camavinga

Rodri’s situation could also influence Real Madrid’s plans involving Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga, both of whom have attracted interest from Premier League clubs.

As reported by Daily Mail Sport, Manchester United have admired Tchouameni for some time. However, the club has not reopened discussions since making initial enquiries several months ago. The report adds that the French midfielder would command a substantial transfer fee and could prove difficult to accommodate within United’s current wage structure.

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Camavinga has also been linked with interest from Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal. Despite already building significant experience at the highest level, the France international is still only 23 years old, making him an attractive long-term option.

Whether either midfielder leaves Real Madrid could depend on how the Spanish club approaches its midfield plans if Rodri becomes a serious transfer target in the months ahead.

FAQs

Why is Rodri set to undergo surgery?

Reports claim the Spain captain will undergo surgery to treat a back injury following the FIFA World Cup 2026.

How could Rodri’s injury affect Manchester City?

Rodri’s absence could leave a major gap in City’s midfield, though the club has signed Elliot Anderson to strengthen the position.