Maresca confirms Rodri back surgery as he addresses Guardiola succession

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Spain captain Rodri will undergo back surgery on Monday, a development that follows the midfielder’s pivotal role in his country’s recent World Cup victory. Speaking at his first press conference since succeeding Pep Guardiola last month, Maresca outlined the immediate medical pathway for the 30-year-old, stating that the procedure will be followed by a period of rest and recovery before the player rejoins the squad.

The Ballon d’Or winner started all eight of Spain’s matches during the tournament, where they secured their second men’s World Cup title, and was named Player of the Tournament. However, his recent club career has been significantly disrupted by injury, including an anterior cruciate ligament issue that sidelined him for the majority of the 2024-25 campaign, followed by further setbacks last season. Maresca did not provide a specific return date but emphasised the necessity of the upcoming recuperation period.

During the briefing, Maresca addressed speculation linking Rodri with a move to Real Madrid, dismissing such reports as routine for elite athletes. He noted that interest in the Spanish international is understandable given his status, stating, “Around big players there are always speculations so I am not worried about that.” The manager affirmed his confidence in the player’s future at the club, describing the rumours as normal in the context of Rodri’s recent international success and individual accolades.

Maresca also confronted the challenge of replacing Guardiola, whom he worked under as an assistant during the 2022-23 Treble-winning season. He described the opportunity as a privilege, noting that Guardiola is considered the best coach in the world over the last 20 to 25 years. Acknowledging the historical stability of the club, which has employed only three managers in 16 years with Roberto Mancini being the previous long-serving figure, Maresca expressed confidence in the existing organisational structure.

Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Maresca indicated that other injured players are expected to return to training three or four days before the Community Shield match against Arsenal on 16 August. He hinted at potential activity in the transfer window, though he declined to elaborate on the futures of specific squad members, including goalkeeper James Trafford and midfielder Jack Grealish, who has returned to training after a loan spell at Everton.