Rodri surgery and Medina’s neighbourhood play after World Cup

Spain’s World Cup‑winning midfielder Rodrigo Hernández, known as Rodri and a Manchester City player, underwent a successful minor back operation two weeks after the 2026 final. The club announced the procedure was to address a long‑standing discomfort and said he will enter a short rehabilitation period. Real Madrid’s reported interest in signing the 28‑year‑old continues, with a potential €50‑60 million offer being discussed.

Argentina’s defender Facundo Medina, who featured in the World Cup final, returned to his hometown of Lanús four days after the match. He joined friends for a casual street game, wearing a River Plate spare kit, and drew attention from fans despite his current contract with Olympique de Marseille.