Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Rodri will undergo back surgery on Monday after helping Spain lift the FIFA World Cup.
The Ballon d'Or winner captained Spain to glory and was named Player of the Tournament, but will now begin a period of recovery before returning to club duty.
Maresca confirms Rodri setback
Speaking at his first press conference since taking charge at the Etihad Stadium, Maresca revealed the midfielder's immediate focus will be on surgery and rehabilitation.
"Now, [he undergoes] surgery on Monday. Then he needs a holiday, he needs to rest and recover and then he will be back with us," the Italian said.
Maresca did not put a timeframe on Rodri's return but dismissed reports linking the Spain international with a move to Real Madrid.
Fabrizio Romano@FabrizioRomano“Every manager wants to have Rodri, because he's a top player”.
"Around big players there are always speculations so I am not worried about that," he added.
"I think it is normal, also because they won the World Cup and because he is one of the best players. I think every manager wants to have Rodri because he is a top player."
Rodri has endured an injury-hit spell over the past two seasons. A serious anterior cruciate ligament injury ruled him out for much of the 2024-25 campaign, while further fitness setbacks limited his availability last season before he returned to top form at the World Cup.
Maresca embraces Manchester City challenge
Maresca also confirmed he expects City's remaining international players to rejoin the squad a few days before the Community Shield clash against Premier League champions Arsenal on August 16.
The 46-year-old succeeds Pep Guardiola after the Spaniard's trophy-laden decade at the club and acknowledged the magnitude of replacing one of football's most successful managers.
"I want to say it is a privilege because it's the reason why the club decided to go for me," Maresca continued.
"I have said many times, I consider Pep the best coach in the world in the last 20 to 25 years. It is a challenge."
Having previously served as Guardiola's assistant during City's Treble-winning campaign in 2022-23, Maresca believes he understands the club's culture and long-term vision.
"I know the organisation quite well and the people inside the club from years ago. The structure understands to give time for everything.
"Since Manchester City contacted me, I had no doubt about joining this fantastic club."
The new City boss also hinted there could still be activity before the transfer window closes but declined to comment on the futures of players such as James Trafford and Jack Grealish, who has returned to the club after spending last season on loan at Everton.
