Rodri out for ‘short period’ after back surgery
Manchester City midfielder Rodri will be sidelined for what the club has described as a "short period of rehabilitation" after undergoing back surgery. New manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the operation would take place on Monday, saying the Spain international "needs a holiday, he needs to rest and recover" before returning, though no firm timeline has been given for his comeback.
City said Rodri had been "feeling discomfort for some time" before the procedure to address the issue. The 30-year-old, who has a year left on his contract, has been strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid after starring for Spain in their World Cup triumph this summer, where he was named player of the tournament; his fitness has been a persistent concern, with the past two seasons disrupted by injury including a torn ACL that ruled him out for most of 2024-25. Separately, City confirmed defender Josko Gvardiol has signed a new five-year deal keeping him at the club until 2031.
- Rodri to have back surgery, faces short rehab period
- No return date set; City open season on 23 August
- Real Madrid interest lingers after Rodri's World Cup-winning form
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Rodri is a Spanish international midfielder at Manchester City who is widely considered among the best players in the Premier League. He plays a vital role in City's midfield and has been essential to the club's recent success.
The 30-year-old recently enjoyed a brilliant World Cup, where Spain won the tournament and he was named player of the tournament. This strong performance has sparked serious interest from Real Madrid, though he remains under contract with City until 2027.
Injury has repeatedly disrupted Rodri's availability in recent seasons, including a serious knee injury that kept him sidelined for much of last year. Given his importance to Manchester City's plans, any period out of action is significant and will be closely followed by supporters across football.