Manchester City midfielder Rodri to undergo back surgery, future in doubt

Spain’s World Cup‑winning captain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri will have surgery on a back injury, with no timetable for his return. The 30‑year‑old played every minute of Spain’s 2026 World Cup triumph and won the tournament’s Golden Ball, but has missed most of the 2024‑25 season after an ACL rupture and has struggled with hamstring and groin problems, limiting him to 33 appearances last campaign.

Rodri’s contract with City runs until June 2027, and his future has become a transfer topic. Real Madrid have reportedly held secret talks with his representatives and are interested in signing him, while City have demanded a fee around €100 million, above the €60 million Real are said to be willing to pay. Manchester City have already bolstered the midfield with the £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson to cover his absence.