Rodri survives training scare to play 60 minutes in Spain's 3-1 win over Peru

Rodri played 60 minutes for Spain in their 3-1 victory over Peru in Mexico on Wednesday, easing fears sparked by a training-ground incident just days before the World Cup gets underway.

The Manchester City midfielder was caught on the foot by Barcelona’s Gavi during a session in Chattanooga, Tennessee, leaving the Ballon d’Or winner in visible pain and needing assistance to his feet. The moment drew sharp criticism online, with some accusing Gavi of recklessness so close to the tournament.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente moved quickly to shut down the controversy at his pre-match press conference. “This is football,” he said. “It’s training. The players are very committed, and nobody has to apologise to anybody. Everything is fine. We know Gavi, he has that energy, that drive. That’s one of his virtues. He has to control it and ration it. But I want this Gavi.”

The challenge was particularly alarming given Rodri’s recent medical history. In September 2024, the 29-year-old suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear during a Premier League match against Arsenal — a serious setback that kept him sidelined for months. He only returned to regular action for City during the 2025 Club World Cup, and even then faced a series of further setbacks.

Rodri has spoken candidly about the psychological toll of that recovery. “When I came back, I had some doubts about being able to play normally again,” he told DAZN. “I felt very limited, in a lot of pain. When you stop completely, your body brings out what it hasn’t been able to do during that time.”

“There was a moment of doubt where I wondered not just if I would return to my previous level, but if I would ever play again. I’ve proven that I have. I’ve returned to that consistency in my football. It’s a long road, that’s clear.”

His 60-minute run-out against Peru will provide considerable reassurance to both Spain and City supporters that he is fit and available for the tournament.