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Spain captain Rodri has opened up about his emotional journey from a devastating knee injury to lifting the 2026 World Cup trophy in North America. The Manchester City midfielder was named best player of the tournament after leading La Roja to a historic victory over Argentina in the final.
A return for the ages
Rodri has revealed his disbelief after captaining Spain to World Cup glory following a grueling recovery from a serious knee injury. The 30-year-old suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in September 2024, just weeks before receiving the Ballon d’Or.
The all-round midfielder was officially named best player of the 2026 World Cup, beating Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé to the Ballon d’Or. Reflecting on his personal battle to reach the top of the game again, Rodri said: “We are a bit shocked at the moment, even myself. I can’t put it into words. I think we are on a cloud nine now, but, for me, it has been a very difficult time.
“I just want new generations to see my example as an opportunity. When you fall, you can get back up. This is my philosophy for my entire life.”
Gratitude and self-confidence
The Spanish captain was quick to acknowledge the support system that helped him return to the playing field, but he also highlighted the internal mental strength necessary to overcome such a significant physical setback.
After leading his country to a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final, Rodri’s leadership was praised by both his teammates and the coaching staff.
Speaking to FOX Sports after the trophy presentation, Rodri offered a candid assessment of his journey, stating: “Of course, sometimes things go good, things go bad, but it’s always positive. I told the boys before the game: ‘We have to go for the game’. We have to face them, we have to look them in the eye. We want this game.
“And then life gives you the World Cup or not, but we were brave and I was brave in that moment when I was down, so I want to thank all the people who helped me. But I want to thank myself, to be honest, in those moments.”
Breaking records on the world stage
Beyond individual accolades, Rodri’s leadership has helped this Spanish generation etch their names in the history books. By defeating Argentina, Spain officially established a new unbeaten record in international football, reaching 38 games without losing.
Rodri believes the key to their success in North America was the maturity the team developed since their victory in Berlin two years ago.
“I think the improvement gap compared to the Euro Cup is the way this team matured,” explained the captain. “It’s based on the game, it’s built on every day. We face very different opponents, of course, a lot of European opponents, but different times, different types of games.
“And we managed to play against everyone, so I think we grew in this sense and this speaks of a generation that is making history for our country, as you can see, but also in the way we did it.”
Building a dynasty
Victory in the 2026 final marks Spain’s second men’s World Cup title, following their initial success in 2010.
While the Manchester City star stood out individually, the collective effort under De la Fuente has been the hallmark of their campaign. The team showed notable defensive rigidity, conceding only one goal throughout the tournament while maintaining its characteristic possession-based style.
For Rodri, the focus is now on the future of his club as his contract at the Etihad Stadium enters its final year, but his legacy with the national team is already beyond reproach. He has become the heartbeat of a team that balances tactical discipline with style.
