Rodri admits that the Ballon d’Or trophy offered no consolation to him after injury. He says he wants to return to his level, and wants to enjoy football again.
Rodri, the midfield maestro for Manchester City and Spain, has revealed that his Ballon d'Or trophy offered little comfort during his injury layoff last season. The Spaniard endured a frustrating period on the sidelines after rupturing his cruciate ligament in a match against Arsenal in September. This injury forced him to miss a significant portion of the campaign.
The setback not only affected Rodri personally but also had a noticeable impact on Manchester City's performance. The team struggled in his absence, ultimately finishing third in the Premier League. This marked their lowest league finish since the 2016-17 season, highlighting Rodri's crucial role in the team's success.
Reflecting on the injury, Rodri emphasized the significance of the setback, despite receiving one of the most prestigious individual awards in football. "The injury is much more significant than the Ballon d’Or," Rodri stated during a press conference prior to Spain's match against Turkey. "I’m happy for the recognition, but it’s of no use to me. I still want to be the same player."
Rodri’s comments underscore the importance of physical well-being and consistent playing time for a professional athlete. While individual accolades are appreciated, they pale in comparison to the satisfaction of contributing to the team's success on the field. The injury not only deprived Rodri of playing time but also disrupted his mental focus and rhythm.
“Above all, when you go through this process on a mental level, I want to return to my level, I want to enjoy football again. That’s my only goal,” Rodri added, highlighting his determination to overcome the mental challenges associated with injury recovery.
Rodri’s focus is now firmly set on regaining his peak form and contributing to both Manchester City and Spain. He acknowledged the gradual process of returning to full fitness. “So far I’ve played two [matches this season] with my club, one in its entirety. I’m going as fast as I can, getting back into shape,” he explained. His dedication to regaining his fitness and form is a testament to his commitment to the sport and his teams.
“Turkey is not a team defined by big individual stars, but by being a very compact unit.”
“I see them as a very dangerous opponent at home, and they will force us to show our very best.”
Rodrigo, Spain international player.#VamosEspaña | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/bgGWb1XAv0
— Spanish Football (@SpainIsFootball) September 6, 2025
In Spain's recent 3-0 victory over Bulgaria, Rodri made an appearance off the bench, replacing Martin Zubimendi, who recently joined Arsenal. Rodri praised Zubimendi's potential, recognizing him as a future key player for the national team, despite them playing in similar positions. "He’s a great player. He has the discipline and mentality that can lead him to become one of the best, if he isn’t already," Rodri commented.
Further emphasizing his admiration for Zubimendi, Rodri added, "I spoke to him the other day and told him it was his time, that I was leaving him the keys to the team. He’s been at an incredible level and I’m happy to see the team at the same level." This endorsement reflects Rodri's confidence in the next generation of Spanish midfielders.
Looking ahead, Spain aims to secure their second consecutive victory in World Cup qualifying as they prepare to face Turkey. The team's performance will be crucial in their quest to secure a spot in the upcoming tournament. Rodri's return to fitness and his influence on the team will be pivotal in their campaign. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as Spain navigates the challenges of World Cup qualification. The match against Turkey presents a significant test, and Spain will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
Rodri's journey back from injury is a testament to his resilience and determination. His focus on regaining his form and contributing to his teams demonstrates his unwavering commitment to football. As he continues his recovery, fans and teammates alike will be eager to see him back at his best, orchestrating play and driving his teams to success. His perspective on the Ballon d'Or highlights the importance of teamwork, physical well-being, and the joy of playing the game.