Manchester City confirms surgery plan for Rodri
Enzo Maresca has confirmed Rodri will undergo back surgery next week as he expressed confidence that Manchester City can keep hold of the 2026 FIFA World Cup golden ball winner.
Rodri was named the player of the tournament as Spain won its second FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 in last week's final in New Jersey.
He wore the captain's armband for La Roja and ranked first among all players at the tournament for successful passes (756), with that figure also being the most by any player at a single FIFA World Cup since 1966, when such records began.
Rodri also led all other players at the competition for tackles attempted (23) and tackles won (18), protecting a Spain backline that only conceded one goal in eight matches.
After he added the FIFA World Cup and the golden ball to a glittering trophy cabinet that already included the European championships, four Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League, two FA Cups, three Carabao Cups and the Ballon d'Or, Rodri's future has been scrutinised.
He has been strongly linked with Real Madrid after entering the final year of his contract with the Citizens, with reports suggesting the former Atletico Madrid midfielder is keen to return to the Spanish capital.
But, speaking at his introductory press conference on Friday, Maresca outlined his desire to keep Rodri by describing him as a player every coach would love to work with.
The City boss also confirmed reports that Rodri will undergo surgery on a minor back injury, which could cause him to miss the opening games of the Premier League season.
"First of all, I have to say that around big players there is always speculation, so I am not worried about that," Maresca said.
"I think it is normal, also because they won the World Cup, because he is one of the best players.
"I think every manager wants to have Rodri because he is a top player.
"But now, he has surgery on Monday. He needs a holiday; he needs to rest and recover and then he will be back with us."
City's campaign starts against Arsenal in the Community Shield on 17 August (AEST), ahead of its Premier League opener versus Bournemouth the next week.
