Rodri to Undergo Back Surgery as Enzo Maresca Confirms Major Manchester City Injury Blow

Maresca Confirms Rodri Will Undergo Surgery

Manchester City have been dealt a significant setback after head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed that midfield star Rodri will undergo back surgery following Spain's successful FIFA World Cup campaign.

Speaking during his latest press conference, Maresca revealed that the operation has been scheduled for next Monday, explaining that the midfielder had delayed the procedure in order to represent Spain at the World Cup. �

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The announcement means City are now preparing to begin the 2026–27 season without arguably their most influential player.

Rodri Played Through the Pain

Despite lifting the World Cup trophy with Spain and being named the tournament's outstanding player, Rodri had reportedly been dealing with persistent back discomfort throughout the competition.

Rather than immediately undergoing surgery, the midfielder chose to remain with the national team until the tournament concluded before agreeing to the medical procedure. �

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His commitment underlines just how important the World Cup was to both the player and Spain.

No Return Date Confirmed

While Maresca confirmed the operation, he stopped short of giving an exact recovery timetable.

Manchester City's medical staff will assess Rodri's rehabilitation after surgery before determining when he can safely return to training.

Current reports indicate there is no confirmed return date, although the midfielder is expected to miss the beginning of City's Premier League campaign. �

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Rodri Chose Country Before Surgery

Rodri's decision highlights the commitment that made him one of Spain's standout performers during the World Cup.

Despite carrying the injury, the 30-year-old captained Spain to victory over Argentina in the final and was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player. His performances underlined his importance to both club and country, even while managing a physical issue that eventually required surgical treatment.

A Fresh Injury Blow for Manchester City

The timing is far from ideal for Manchester City.

Rodri has endured a difficult period with injuries over the past two seasons, having previously recovered from a serious knee injury before returning to top form. This latest setback means City may once again have to cope without the midfielder during the opening weeks of the Premier League campaign.

Although the club have not announced a precise recovery timetable, early indications suggest he could miss the start of the domestic season while completing his rehabilitation. �

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Why Rodri's Absence Matters

Few players are as central to Manchester City's style of play as Rodri.

His intelligence in possession, defensive awareness and ability to dictate the tempo make him the heartbeat of City's midfield. Whether shielding the defence, initiating attacks or controlling matches under pressure, Rodri performs responsibilities that are exceptionally difficult to replace.

His absence will place additional responsibility on the rest of City's midfield as Maresca prepares for his first competitive fixtures in charge.

What This Means for Enzo Maresca

Every new manager hopes to begin with a fully fit squad, but Maresca's first pre-season has already presented a significant challenge.

Losing his most influential midfielder before the campaign begins forces the Italian coach to consider alternative midfield combinations while ensuring Rodri is not rushed back before he is fully recovered.

Managing the Spaniard's long-term fitness could prove just as important as replacing him in the short term.

💬 Fan Debate

[.]⚽ Goal – Rodri made the right decision by delaying surgery to help Spain win the World Cup.

[.]🔥 Fire – Manchester City have enough midfield quality to cope without him.

[.]😲 Shock – Playing through injury to win the World Cup makes Rodri's performances even more remarkable.

[.]👍 Like – Maresca should be patient and only bring Rodri back when he is fully fit.

[.]💬 Comment – How many matches do you think Manchester City will miss Rodri for, and who should replace him in midfield?