Manchester City’s Rodri to undergo back surgery, Maresca dismisses transfer speculation
Manchester City’s new head coach, Enzo Maresca, has confirmed that Spain captain Rodri will undergo surgery for a back issue on Monday. The midfielder, who was named the Golden Ball winner after guiding his country to World Cup glory, has experienced significant disruptions in his club career over the past two seasons due to injuries.
Rodri’s previous club seasons were heavily impacted by an anterior cruciate ligament injury during the 2024-25 campaign, followed by further setbacks last season that limited his availability. Despite these challenges, he returned to strong form at the World Cup. Maresca stated that following his surgery, Rodri will require a period of rest and recovery before rejoining the squad.
Maresca addresses transfer rumours and club stability
During his first news conference since taking over from Pep Guardiola, Maresca also addressed speculation regarding Rodri’s future at Etihad Stadium. Reports had linked the midfielder with a move to Real Madrid, but Maresca dismissed these concerns, stating that such rumours are common around top players, especially after a successful World Cup campaign.
Maresca, who previously worked as Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022-23 Treble-winning season, acknowledged the challenge of succeeding a manager he considers the best in the world. He described it as a privilege and a significant challenge to continue the club’s success, which has seen only three managers in 16 years.
The Italian coach expressed confidence in the club’s administrative structure and its commitment to long-term projects. He highlighted his familiarity with the club and its personnel, having returned for his third spell, which includes coaching the elite development squad and serving as an assistant.
Squad returns and transfer window plans
Maresca indicated that the remaining players, who are yet to return, are expected to join the squad three or four days before City faces Premier League champions Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday, 16 August. He noted that he is currently working with a number of young players who are showing great energy and impressive levels.
Regarding the transfer window, Maresca hinted that there are still “a few things to do.” He did not provide specific details on potential incomings or outgoings but confirmed that recruitment efforts are ongoing. He also addressed the futures of players like goalkeeper James Trafford, who has been linked with a move away, and midfielder Jack Grealish, who spent last season on loan at Everton and is now back in training with City.
Maresca confirmed that Grealish remains a part of his plans for now, stating that it is his duty to work with any player belonging to the club. He also mentioned his prior experience with Trafford from his time coaching the under-23 team, acknowledging that anything is possible in the transfer window.
The new head coach outlined his footballing philosophy, emphasizing pressing, controlling matches, and imposing a distinct style, similar to what was seen under the previous coach. He also mentioned that having players like Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal and Erling Haaland up front could offer advantages, including the use of long balls as one tactical solution among many.
Maresca concluded by stating his focus is entirely on Manchester City and continuing the club’s successful journey that began with Roberto Mancini.
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Source: bbc.com
