Maresca confirms Rodri back surgery, dismisses transfer speculation
Enzo Maresca addresses Rodri’s upcoming procedure and his tactical continuity following Pep Guardiola’s departure
Manchester City’s new head coach, Enzo Maresca, has confirmed that midfielder Rodri will undergo back surgery next Monday. The announcement was made during Maresca’s unveiling press conference on Friday, establishing the immediate medical pathway for the Spanish international following his pivotal role in Spain’s recent World Cup victory.
Maresca stated that the player requires a period of rest and recovery before returning to the club. While the procedure is scheduled for early next week, the new manager did not provide a specific timeline for Rodri’s return to play. This development follows a history of injury disruptions for the midfielder, who sustained anterior cruciate ligament damage in 2024 and endured a compromised campaign last season.
Rodri recently led Spain to their second men’s World Cup title and was named the tournament’s best player, receiving the Golden Ball Award. His performance in the final on Sunday capped a successful international stint, despite the physical toll of the tournament and his previous club injuries.
Addressing speculation linking Rodri with moves to other elite clubs, Maresca dismissed such reports as routine for high-profile athletes. He affirmed his confidence in the player’s future at Manchester City, noting that interest in Rodri is understandable given his status as a top-tier talent.
The Italian coach described his appointment as both a privilege and a challenge, acknowledging Pep Guardiola as possibly the best coach in the world over the last 20 to 25 years. Maresca, who previously served as an academy coach and Guardiola’s assistant at the club, outlined his intent to replicate Guardiola’s tactical concepts by focusing on aggression on the ball and game control.
Guardiola departed Manchester City after a historic tenure that included 17 major trophies, such as six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League. Maresca’s return to the club marks his third stint with the organisation, having also worked with the team during their treble-winning season in 2023.
