Manchester City's Rodri is set for back surgery, according to BBC News, with new head coach Enzo Maresca confirming the World Cup winner will go under the knife to address the issue.
Maresca, who has taken charge at the Etihad, was also quizzed on swirling transfer speculation surrounding the Spanish midfielder but chose to play down the noise, declining to be drawn into further comment on his future.
Rodri, regarded as one of the finest defensive midfielders in world football, has been central to City's success in recent seasons, and any prolonged absence through injury would represent a significant blow to Maresca's early plans as he settles into the role.
Details on the exact nature of the surgery, recovery timeline, or how long Rodri is expected to be sidelined have not been disclosed. BBC News reports that City's new manager is keen to keep the focus on football matters rather than engage with rumours linking his star man with a possible departure.