Enzo Maresca’s stint as Manchester City’s head coach has encountered an early setback even before his first official match in charge, as star midfielder Rodri is set to undergo surgery. The Spanish international is reportedly dealing with an undisclosed injury and is expected to miss the opening weeks of the 2026-27 season.

City’s dependable midfield anchor is now facing a spell on the sidelines. The club is preparing to kick off the Maresca era without one of their most crucial players, with Rodri scheduled for surgery following the end of the World Cup. According to reports from the Daily Mail, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner is suffering from a 'mystery injury' that requires surgical treatment.

Although Manchester City have not provided details about the nature of the issue, it is understood that the operation will be carried out once Spain’s World Cup campaign in the United States, Mexico, and Canada concludes. This timing means the 30-year-old midfielder will miss a major portion of City’s pre-season preparations under their newly appointed manager.

The timing could hardly be worse for Maresca, who recently returned to the Etihad Stadium after a compensation agreement with Chelsea. The Italian tactician had hoped for a smooth start in his new role, but losing Rodri for the beginning of the campaign presents a major challenge. “Manchester City is a club I know very well, and to have the chance to manage this team is a brilliant opportunity for me,” Maresca said upon his appointment. “This will be my third spell here. I know this Club, I know the demands, and I know the expectations.”

Despite his familiarity with the squad, finding a suitable replacement for Rodri’s tactical intelligence will be a significant test. However, Maresca remains positive about the club’s framework. “City is an incredibly well-run football club. Everything they do is innovative, well-planned, and purposeful. For a manager, that is a dream scenario. It provides the consistency I need to perform my role effectively. I’m eager to get started with the players—I want us to win, play attractive football, and embrace the responsibility of representing Manchester City,” he added.

The injury setback also arrives amid uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s long-term future at the Etihad. The former Atlético Madrid midfielder has just 12 months left on his current contract. Although a new offer is reportedly on the table, no agreement has been reached yet. This has fuelled speculation about a possible return to Spain, with Real Madrid said to be strongly interested in signing him.

If no renewal is agreed upon, Rodri could sign a pre-contract deal with foreign clubs from 1 January onwards. A move to the Santiago Bernabéu would see him link up again with former City teammate Bernardo Silva, who recently joined José Mourinho’s Real Madrid. City are also dealing with similar uncertainty regarding defender Nathan Aké, who likewise enters the final year of his contract.

This latest health concern has raised further questions about Rodri’s long-term fitness and durability. The midfielder has been a vital presence in City’s recent success, making 33 appearances last season across all competitions and netting two goals. During his time at the club, he has collected an impressive list of honours, including four Premier League titles, one Champions League crown, two FA Cups, three League Cups, and one each of the FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and Community Shield.

Rodri’s journey back to full strength has not been easy since suffering an ACL injury nearly two years ago. Although he returned to top form and went on to win the Ballon d'Or, the upcoming surgery indicates that the effects of a demanding and relentless playing schedule may still be lingering.