2026 WCQs: Spain confirm Rodri withdrawal due to hamstring issue
Spain midfielder Rodri has pulled out of the national team squad for this month’s World Cup qualifiers after suffering a hamstring problem during Manchester City’s narrow 1-0 victory over Brentford on Sunday.
The 29-year-old lasted just 21 minutes at the Gtech Community Stadium before signalling discomfort and sitting on the turf.
He was quickly replaced by Nico Gonzalez as City held on to claim all three points courtesy of Erling Haaland’s early strike.
Minor hamstring concern, says Rodri
Initial fears suggested the injury might sideline Rodri for an extended spell, particularly given his recent fitness struggles.
However, the midfielder has since played down those concerns, insisting the issue is not serious.
“I felt a little bit in the hamstring, but it seems like it’s not that much,” Rodri told Sky Sports after the match.
“I stretched a bit, like in the Euros final, but the most important thing is that it’s not that big. The good thing is the international break will help me recover.”
Rodri’s latest setback comes just months after returning from a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
He suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Arsenal in September 2024, an ordeal that required surgery and forced him to miss much of last season.
Spain confirm withdrawal
The Spanish Football Federation confirmed Rodri’s withdrawal on Monday morning, ruling him out of the upcoming qualifiers against Georgia and Bulgaria.
His absence will be felt by head coach Luis de la Fuente, who considers the Manchester City man vital to Spain’s tactical balance and composure in midfield.
Spain are currently on course to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, and De la Fuente will hope Rodri’s recovery progresses fast ahead of the decisive final stages of the qualifying campaign.
City prioritise full recovery before everton clash
For Manchester City, Pep Guardiola will see the international break as a timely window for his midfield general to rest and recover.
The Premier League side are due to face Everton on October 18, and Rodri’s availability will be crucial as City continue to fight their way to the top.
