Rodri, the Spain captain, will undergo surgery for a back issue on Monday, Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca confirmed. The 30-year-old midfielder's recovery will be a significant concern for the club after his return to form at the World Cup.
Rodri Faces Surgery Nightmare as Back Injury Looms
Rodri's last two seasons at club level were heavily disrupted due to injuries. An anterior cruciate ligament injury kept him sidelined for the majority of the 2024-25 campaign, and several setbacks last season meant he was often unavailable. The Ballon d'Or winner was back to his best at the World Cup, but Maresca said he now needs surgery followed by recuperation.
The Italian coach said, "Now, [he has] surgery on Monday. Then he needs a holiday, he needs to rest and recover and then he will be back with us." Maresca did not elaborate on when Rodri might return, but he dismissed speculation around the Spaniard's future at Etihad Stadium following reports linking him with a move to Real Madrid.
Maresca Prepares for Life After Guardiola
Maresca's first news conference since succeeding Pep Guardiola last month was filled with questions about the Catalan's legacy. Guardiola won 20 trophies in his 10 years at the club, and Maresca acknowledged the tough act he has to follow. "I want to say it is a privilege because it's the reason why the club decided to go for me, that is a privilege," he said.
Maresca, who worked as Guardiola's assistant during the 2022-23 Treble-winning season, knows only too well the challenge he faces. He called time on his time at Chelsea in January after 18 months and is now confident that he can continue to do a great job at Manchester City. "I know the organisation quite well and the people inside the club from years ago," he said. "The structure understands to give time for everything."
Return of the Squad
Maresca is expecting other players still to return to the squad three or four days before Manchester City face Premier League champions Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday, 16 August. He hinted that there were "a few things to do" in the transfer window but would not be drawn on the futures of players including goalkeeper James Trafford, who has been linked with a move away from the club, and returning midfielder Jack Grealish, who spent last season on loan at Everton but is back in training with City.
Rodri's surgery and subsequent recovery will be closely watched by Manchester City fans and the football community. His return to form at the World Cup was a significant boost for the team, and his absence will be felt if he is unable to recover quickly. As Maresca said, "I think every manager wants to have Rodri because he is a top player."
Source: Joy Online
