Manchester City's World Cup winner, Rodri, is scheduled for minor back surgery, potentially causing him to miss the beginning of the Premier League season. The midfielder captained Spain to a World Cup final victory and was named player of the tournament, but now requires an operation for a persistent back issue.

Rodri is already expected to be absent from the Community Shield match against Arsenal. His participation in City's Premier League opener against Bournemouth on August 23rd is now uncertain. The team's subsequent fixtures include matches against Crystal Palace, Coventry, Man Utd, and Sunderland before the September international break.

This news follows a series of injury setbacks for the 30-year-old, including an ACL injury in 2024 that significantly limited his appearances in the 2024/25 season and further issues last term. Rodri has one year remaining on his contract and has been linked with Real Madrid, though City and new manager Enzo Maresca are keen to retain him.