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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 the best player of the tournament after leading La Roja to a historic victory over Argentina in the final.
A comeback for the ages
Rodri has revealed his disbelief at captaining Spain to World Cup glory following a grueling recovery from a serious knee injury. The 30-year-old suffered ACL injury in September 2024, just weeks before he was awarded the Ballon d’Or.
The midfield general was officially named the best player at the 2026 World Cup, beating Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe to the Ballon d’Or. Reflecting on his personal struggle to get back to the top of the game, Rodri said: “We’re a bit shocked right now, even myself. I can’t put it into words. I think now we’re like in a cloud, but for me it’s been a very tough time.
“I just want the new generations to see my example as an opportunity. When you fall down, you can get up again. This is my philosophy for my whole life.”
Gratitude and confidence
The Spain captain was quick to acknowledge the support system that helped him return to the pitch, but he also highlighted the inner mental strength required to overcome such a significant physical setback.
After leading his nation to a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final, Rodri’s leadership was praised by teammates and coaching staff alike.
Speaking to FOX Sports after the trophy presentation, Rodri offered an honest assessment of his journey, stating: “Obviously sometimes things go well, things go wrong, but always the positivity. I told the boys before the game, ‘we’ve got to go to the game.’ We have to face them, we have to face them. We want this game.
“And then life gives you the World Cup or not, but we were brave and I was brave in the moment 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 put their names in the history books. By defeating Argentina, Spain officially set a new unbeaten record in international football, reaching 38 matches without defeat.
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 from the EC, that was the way this team has matured,” explained the captain. “It’s built on the game, it’s built on every single day. We faced very different opponents, of course, lots of European opponents, but different moments, different types of games.
“And we managed to play them all, so I think we’re growing in this sense, and this speaks to a generation 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 after their first success in 2010.
While the Manchester City star was the individual standout, the collective effort under De la Fuente has been the hallmark of their campaign. The team displayed remarkable defensive rigidity, conceding just one goal throughout the tournament while maintaining their signature possession-based style.
For Rodri, the focus now turns to his club future as his contract at the Etihad Stadium enters its final year, but his legacy with the national team is already undisputed. He has become the heartbeat of a side that balances tactical discipline with flair.
