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Spain captain Rodri has spoken about his emotional journey from a serious knee injury to lifting the 2026 World Cup trophy in North America. The Manchester City midfielder was named the tournament's best player after leading La Roja to a historic victory over Argentina in the final.

A comeback for the ages

Rodri expressed his disbelief after captaining Spain to World Cup glory following a demanding recovery from a severe knee injury. The 30-year-old had suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in September 2024, only weeks before he received the Ballon d'Or honour.

The midfield general was officially crowned the best player at the 2026 World Cup, edging past Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe to claim the Golden Ball. Reflecting on his journey back to the top, Rodri shared: "We're a bit shocked right now, even myself. I cannot express with words. I think now we're like in a cloud but, for me, it's been a very tough time.

"I just want the new generations to see my example as an opportunity. When you go down, you can rise again. This is my philosophy for my entire life."

Gratitude and self-belief

The Spanish skipper was quick to thank the support network that helped him return to the pitch, but he also emphasised the inner strength it took to overcome such a major physical challenge. After leading Spain to a 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina in the final, Rodri’s leadership drew praise from both his teammates and coaching staff.

Speaking to reporters after the trophy presentation, Rodri reflected honestly on his journey: "Of course, sometimes things go well, things go wrong, but always the positiveness. I said to the lads before the game, 'we have to go for the game.' We need to face them, we have to look to their eyes. We want this game.

"And then life gives you the World Cup or not, but we were brave and I was brave in that moment I was down, so I want to thank all the people that helped me. But I want to thank myself, to be honest, in those moments."

Breaking records on the world stage

Beyond his personal achievements, Rodri’s leadership helped this Spanish side carve their names into football history. The victory over Argentina set a new unbeaten record in international football, as Spain extended their streak to 38 matches without defeat.

Rodri attributed their success in North America to the maturity the team had developed since their triumph in Berlin two years earlier. "I think the gap of improvement from the Euros, it was the way this team is matured," the captain explained. "It's built on the game, it's built on every single day. We faced very different opponents, of course, lots of European opponents, but different moments, different type of games.

"And we managed to play all of them, so I think we grow in this sense and this talks about a generation that is making history for our country, as you can see, but also in the way we did it."

Building a Spanish dynasty

The triumph in the 2026 final marks Spain’s second men’s World Cup title, following their first success in 2010. While the Manchester City star shone individually, the collective effort under coach Luis de la Fuente was the cornerstone of their campaign. The team displayed exceptional defensive discipline, conceding only one goal across the entire tournament, all while maintaining their trademark possession-based style.

For Rodri, attention now shifts to his club career, with his contract at the Etihad Stadium entering its final year. However, his legacy with the national team is already firmly established. He has become the heartbeat of a side that combines tactical organisation with creative flair.