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Rodri sidelined for 'short period' after minor back surgery

  /  autty

Manchester City have confirmed Rodri has undergone successful minor back surgery.

The Spaniard, who led Spain to World Cup glory over the summer, had been feeling discomfort in the area for some time, with the issue now being addressed.

He will undergo a short period of rehabilitation amid speculation that his future at City is in doubt, with the likes of Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona interested in his services.

Rodri, who won the 2024 Ballon d'Or, made just 21 Premier League appearances last term as he continued to struggle with fitness setbacks, following his return from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

However, he looked back to his best at the World Cup, playing in all eight of Spain's matches at the tournament on their way to lifting the trophy.

Rodri clinched the Golden Ball after being named as the Player of the Tournament, becoming the first Premier League player to ever do so.

The Spain captain is also the fourth different men's player to win each of the World Cup, Euros, European Cup/Champions League and Ballon d'Or, after Gerd Muller, Franz Beckenbauer and Zinedine Zidane.

His 756 successful passes at the 2026 World Cup were the most of any player at the tournament (ahead of team-mate and Young Player of the Tournament Pau Cubarsi on 671) and the most on record by any player at a single edition (since 1966).

Rodri also led the way for tackles attempted (23) and won (18), while ranking fourth for successful duels (49).

City begin their season against Arsenal in the Community Shield on August 16, before facing Bournemouth in their Premier League opener the following weekend.