Rodri set for back surgery in blow to Man City plans

Manchester City are facing an early fitness concern over Rodri, with the midfielder set to undergo minor surgery on a back problem that could delay his return at the start of the new Premier League campaign.

Fresh setback after World Cup success

The Spain international arrives at this latest issue on the back of a major summer high, having captained his country to victory over Argentina in the World Cup final. He was also awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's outstanding player.

That success, however, has quickly been followed by a medical decision that may affect his availability for City. Rodri was already not expected to feature in the Community Shield against Arsenal after his involvement with Spain, and he is now also a doubt for the club's Premier League opener against Bournemouth on Sunday August 23.

Injuries have disrupted recent seasons

The back procedure comes after a difficult spell for Rodri physically. The 30-year-old has seen the past two seasons interrupted by injury, despite remaining one of the most influential midfielders in the game when fit.

An anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered in September 2024 restricted him to just three Premier League appearances in the 2024/25 season. Further fitness problems then limited him to 21 top-flight outings last term, underlining how challenging the period has been.

His latest setback will therefore be monitored closely by City, particularly given the importance of his role in midfield and the demanding run of fixtures that follows the opening weekend.

City's schedule and contract backdrop

After the Bournemouth match, City are due to face Crystal Palace away, Coventry at home, Manchester United away and Sunderland at home before the September international break.

Rodri's situation also comes at a significant moment off the pitch. He has one year left on his Manchester City contract and has been linked with Real Madrid. City, along with new head coach Enzo Maresca, want him to stay and are keen for him to agree a new deal.

Rodri speaks about resilience

Speaking after Spain's World Cup triumph, Rodri reflected on the difficult road he had taken to reach that point and said he hoped younger players could learn from his example.

"We're a bit shocked right now, even myself," Rodri told Fox Sports. "I cannot express with words. I think now we're like in a cloud but, 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."

Those comments now carry added weight as Rodri prepares for another spell of recovery, with City waiting to discover whether the operation will rule him out of the opening phase of their league season.