Manchester City Star Rodri Sidelined for Extended Period Following Back Surgery Post Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 Win
Manchester City faces a major blow as star midfielder Rodri, Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball winner and captain, is out for an extended period with a back injury requiring surgery. Fresh from leading Spain to a 1-0 extra-time triumph over Argentina in the final, the 30-year-old's absence significantly impacts new manager Enzo Maresca's plans for.
Manchester City's preparations for the 2026-27 season have been rocked by the news that pivotal midfielder Rodri is set to undergo surgery for a debilitating back injury. The devastating blow comes fresh off the heels of the 30-year-old's heroic performance leading Spain to their second FIFA World Cup title, where he captained La Roja to a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, and earned the coveted Golden Ball award as the tournament's best player. 'P*** Espanya', Ferran Torres' FIFA World Cup 2026 Mural Vandalised in Barcelona Amid Catalan Tensions..
The Guardian indicates there is currently no clear timeline for Rodri's return, casting significant doubt over his availability for the start of the new Premier League campaign under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Injury Woes Continue
This latest injury represents another unfortunate setback in what has been a challenging period for the Spanish international. Rodri, born Rodrigo Hernández Cascante on June 22, 1996, endured two injury-plagued seasons prior to his World Cup heroics. He ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in September 2024, an injury that kept him out for most of the 2024-25 season. Subsequent hamstring and groin problems further restricted his game time in the 2025-26 term, limiting him to 33 appearances across all competitions, including 21 Premier League matches with 17 starts.
Despite these persistent fitness issues, Rodri showcased his immense talent and leadership on the grandest stage, culminating in Spain's World Cup triumph and his individual recognition. Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos Reportedly In Talks To Buy 30 Percent Stake in Liverpool FC Via Amit Bhatia Consortium.
Impact on Manchester City's Start to the Season
Rodri's absence leaves a significant void in Manchester City's midfield, particularly as they embark on their pre-season tour and the initial fixtures of the 2026-27 season. New manager Enzo Maresca, who replaced Pep Guardiola at the helm, will now have to contend without one of his most influential players.
Manchester City's upcoming schedule includes a series of high-profile matches:
Manchester City Pre-Season & Early Season Fixtures
| Date | Opponent | Competition/Stage | Venue | Kick-off Time (UK) | Where to Watch (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 1, 2026 | Inter Milan | Pre-Season Friendly | Kai Tak Stadium, Hong Kong | 12:30 PM | CITY+ |
| August 5, 2026 | K-League All Stars | Pre-Season Friendly | World Cup Stadium, Seoul, South Korea | 12:00 PM | CITY+ |
| August 9, 2026 | Atletico Madrid | Pre-Season Friendly | World Cup Stadium, Seoul, South Korea | 12:00 PM | CITY+ |
| August 16, 2026 | Arsenal | Community Shield | Millennium Stadium, Cardiff | 3:00 PM | CITY+, Sky Sports |
| August 23, 2026 | Bournemouth | Premier League | Etihad Stadium, Manchester | 2:00 PM | Sky Sports |
CITY+ will broadcast all of Manchester City's pre-season fixtures. For the Premier League, Sky Sports holds broadcasting rights in the UK and will show a minimum of 215 live matches in the 2026/27 season. FIFA World Cup 2026 Award Winners List: Golden Ball, Golden Glove and Other Prize Winners.
Contract Situation and Future
The timing of this injury also adds another layer of complexity to Rodri's future at the Etihad. His current contract with Manchester City is set to expire in June 2027. While new manager Enzo Maresca is reportedly keen to retain his services, Rodri has previously hinted at a desire to play in his home country again before retiring, with Real Madrid rumored to be interested, although they are yet to make a concrete move.
Rodri's absence is a significant blow to Manchester City as they aim to challenge for silverware in the upcoming season. The club will be hoping for a swift and successful recovery for their star midfielder, whose influence on both the domestic and international stage is undeniable.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 23, 2026 04:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
