Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder who helped Spain capture the 2023 World Cup, is scheduled to undergo back surgery next week. The procedure follows a lingering ACL injury sustained in 2024 that limited his contributions during the previous campaign.
Coach Enzo Maresca, who was recently appointed as the club’s new head coach after Pep Guardiola’s departure, confirmed the surgery and reiterated his intention to keep the player on the roster despite ongoing transfer speculation. Maresca, a former assistant to Guardiola and a longtime figure in the City academy, emphasized the importance of continuity.
Guardiola, who leaves after a trophy‑laden spell that yielded six Premier League titles and a Champions League crown in 2023, departs with a legacy of 17 major trophies at the club and 35 across his career at Barcelona and Bayern Munich. His exit marks the end of an era that many consider the most successful period in the club’s history.
Maresca has spoken admiringly of Guardiola, describing him as probably the best coach of the last two decades. He acknowledges the challenge of succeeding a manager who reshaped modern football tactics while expressing confidence that the team can maintain its competitive edge.
The news of Rodri’s operation comes at a pivotal moment as the club prepares for the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how the midfield will adapt without its key playmaker, and how Maresca will blend his own philosophy with the club’s established culture.
A New Era at the Etihad
Maresca’s appointment signals a shift toward a more integrated approach, blending youth development with the club’s attacking ethos. While the shadow of Guardiola looms large, the new coaching staff is focused on preserving the club’s ambition to win on multiple fronts.