Man City Rodri faces surgery as Maresca's debut looms

Manchester City’s 30‑year‑old midfield linchpin Rodri is set for back surgery, a setback that arrives just as Enzo Maresca prepares to make his first appearance as the club’s new boss, with City’s opening Premier League match against Bournemouth looming on 23 August.

Rodri’s injury woes have dominated his season, as the Spanish midfielder missed the bulk of the 2024/25 campaign, starting only 17 Premier League matches. His limited involvement meant he featured in just a fraction of City’s league fixtures. The operation follows a season where the Spanish international missed almost all of 2024/25, starting only 17 Premier League matches.

Per The Athletic, the 30‑year‑old also enjoyed a triumphant summer with Spain, helping La Roja lift the World Cup trophy for a second time. The victory marked Spain’s second World Cup title.

Manchester City have not set a timetable for Rodri’s return, leaving the midfield plan in uncertainty. No date has been announced for his comeback after the operation.

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The club’s recent summer signing Elliot Anderson is expected to provide cover while Rodri recovers. Anderson’s arrival is viewed as a step to preserve the team’s creative spark in midfield.

Reports suggest the Spanish international is keen on a move to Real Madrid, complicating ongoing contract extension talks. The speculation arrives amid a stalemate over his new deal with City.

Manchester City will open their 2026/27 Premier League season at home against Bournemouth on 23 August, the first test for Maresca’s squad in the new era. The fixture marks the debut of the new manager on the league stage.

Many observers expect Enzo Maresca to steer the club into a title challenge, with Arsenal identified as the main rival. If City can sustain form, they could pressure Arsenal’s hold on the top spot.