Spain’s Rodri Withdraws from World Cup Qualifiers Due to Hamstring Injury

Madrid, Spain – The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) confirmed Monday that Manchester City midfielder Rodri Hernandez has withdrawn from the national squad for upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Georgia and Bulgaria.

Rodri’s injury issues flared up once again during a Premier League match on Sunday, where he was substituted in the 21st minute of Manchester City’s win over Brentford. The 29-year-old was seen sitting on the field clutching his hamstring before limping off.

After the match, Rodri attempted to minimize concerns about his injury, stating, “I felt a little bit in the hamstring – but it seems as though it’s not that much.” He noted that he felt similar discomfort during the Euro 2024 final.

The RFEF later confirmed that medical tests from Manchester City validated the injury. Rodri had previously undergone surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament tear in his right knee in September 2024 and had been working hard to regain peak form.

Spain currently leads its World Cup qualifying group with a perfect record. Six points from the matches against Georgia and Bulgaria would secure their place in the World Cup next year. If Spain falters in Bulgaria, they may still progress if Turkey and Georgia draw.

The national team has not indicated if they will call up a replacement for Rodri. However, coach Luis de la Fuente recently added Celta Vigo striker to the squad following another player’s injury.

Rodri’s absence is a precautionary measure, reflecting a broader strategy by Manchester City’s staff to carefully manage player health during this congested season. Guardiola has been vocal on the need to protect players who have logged significant minutes in multiple competitions.

This international break could provide Rodri with the necessary time to heal before Manchester City’s domestic commitments resume, with their next game scheduled against Everton later in October.