Midfielder Rodri has successfully returned to top form, leading Spain to their second World Cup final, where they will face Argentina and Lionel Messi. Despite struggling to regain his peak performance during the 2025-2026 season, Rodri's journey back has been impressive and crucial for the Spanish national team.

Rodri faced a significant setback when he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in September 2024, which kept him sidelined for about eight months. His recovery process was lengthy, and many fans speculated that they would not see the best version of Rodri until the 2026 World Cup. Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola had predicted this, stating that Rodri's return would not be immediate and that fans should be patient.

Guardiola managed Rodri's recovery with great care, especially after he sustained another injury to his hamstring shortly after his ACL recovery. This precautionary approach paid off, as Rodri gradually regained his fitness and eventually played a key role in Spain's World Cup campaign.

Rodri's first start for Spain in 18 months came during a 3-0 victory over Serbia, and he continued to impress with his performances. He has been instrumental in Spain's midfield, showcasing exceptional passing accuracy and ball control. In the World Cup, he has completed 654 passes, the most in the tournament's history, and maintained a passing accuracy of 92.9%.

His ability to transition the team from defense to attack has been vital, especially in Spain's semi-final victory over France, where he effectively neutralized their attacking threats. Rodri's contributions have not only been in possession but also defensively, as he has excelled in duels and interceptions, proving to be a linchpin in Spain's strategy.

As Spain prepares for the final against Argentina, the challenge of facing Messi looms large. Messi has been a standout performer in the tournament, and Rodri's task will be to limit his impact on the game. The patience and dedication Rodri showed during his recovery have led him to this moment, where he aims to help Spain secure their second World Cup title.