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Spain captain Rodri says the national team has both the talent and character required to compete for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Luis de la Fuente's side prepares to begin its campaign among the tournament favorites.​
The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner enters the competition after overcoming a difficult period marked by injury. Following a cruciate ligament injury suffered in September 2024, Rodri missed 27 matches for both Manchester City and Spain before making his return in mid-May. Now fully recovered, he says he feels ready both physically and mentally for the challenge ahead.​
Rodri expressed his pride in representing Spain and highlighted the confidence within the squad after another successful season at club level. He said the team is eager to demonstrate its quality both individually and collectively on the world stage.​
The midfielder also addressed concerns surrounding teammates who experienced injury setbacks during the season, including Lamine Yamal. Rodri believes Spain's preparation period will help players regain rhythm before the tournament begins and said performances on the pitch will ultimately provide the answers.​
Although many observers view Spain as one of the leading contenders for the title, Rodri stressed that every team starts the World Cup on equal footing. He emphasized that winning the tournament requires steady progress and pointed to Spain's successful UEFA European Championship campaign as evidence of the team's ability to overcome difficult opponents.​
Rodri highlighted the importance of balance within the squad, noting that younger players bring energy, confidence and fearlessness, while experienced players contribute leadership and composure. He believes the combination has created a strong foundation for the national team.​
The captain also praised the atmosphere within the group, describing it as one of the team's greatest strengths. According to Rodri, Spain's coaching staff places great value on character as well as footballing ability when building the squad.​
He acknowledged that long tournaments can be demanding, particularly with players spending extended periods away from their families. However, he credited the strong relationships within the group for helping maintain morale and specifically mentioned Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal as players who regularly lift the mood around the camp.​
Since the departures of senior figures such as Dani Carvajal and Álvaro Morata from leadership roles, Rodri has taken on greater responsibility as captain. He noted that players including Unai Simón, Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres are emerging as influential voices within the squad and emphasized that leadership is shared throughout the group.​
Rodri also spoke highly of head coach Luis de la Fuente, praising his experience, calm approach and long-standing relationship with many members of the squad. He said the trust built over years of working together has helped create a strong understanding between players and coaching staff.​
Reflecting on Spain's status as one of the favorites, Rodri insisted that the team's mentality remains unchanged. He explained that before winning major trophies, Spain had to prove they were capable of success, and now the challenge is to maintain those standards and continue competing at the highest level.​
Looking ahead to the tournament, Rodri believes the expanded 48-team format will make this World Cup one of the most demanding in history. He stressed the importance of managing energy levels throughout the competition and said success often depends on capitalizing on key moments rather than relying solely on form.​
While acknowledging Spain's strong position entering the tournament, Rodri concluded that being labeled favorites offers no guarantees. He pointed to Spain's European Championship triumph, achieved despite not being considered the leading contender, as proof that outcomes are decided on the pitch rather than by pre-tournament predictions.