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After recovering from a major ACL injury almost two years ago, Spanish midfielder Rodri has been able to make a big impact as La Roja look to win their first World Cup since 2010.
Having suffered a similar injury during his career, FOX Sports football analyst Zlatan Ibrahimović praised the remarkable recovery Rodri has made following his injury.
“He is a player who does not receive much credit, he goes unnoticed, but [he] won the Ballon d’Or, which is not normal for the position he plays,” Ibrahimović said after Spain’s semi-final victory over France.
Ibrahimović went on to praise Rodri’s abilities, saying that he not only “ignites the players around him” but can also “put out fires” for his multifaceted leadership capabilities on the field.
In 2024, Rodri ruptured his ACL while playing for Manchester City and underwent surgery which caused him to miss Spain’s title race at Euro 2024. He then made his competitive return in May 2025, receiving a standing ovation when he came on as an 85th-minute substitute during City’s 3–1 victory over Bournemouth.
In this World Cup, Rodri started every game and has played almost every minute, missing only three in the entire tournament. With this type of consistency and health, it’s safe to say that Rodri is back and ready to compete at the highest level.
