Spain captain Rodri expressed shock and deep emotion after leading his nation to a 2026 World Cup victory in North America, a triumph he achieved shortly after recovering from a serious knee injury.
Rodri was named the tournament's best player, earning the Golden Ball award. The Manchester City midfielder's journey back to the top involved overcoming anterior cruciate ligament damage sustained in September 2024, just weeks before he received the Ballon d'Or. He credited his resilience and a positive mindset for his return.
"We're a bit shocked right now, even myself. I cannot express with words," Rodri stated after the final. "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."
The Spanish squad secured their second men's World Cup title with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final. Rodri's leadership was instrumental, with the team displaying defensive strength and a possession-based style throughout the tournament, conceding only one goal.
Spain's win extended their international football record to 38 matches unbeaten. Rodri attributed the team's success to their maturity, developed since their European Championship victory two years prior. "I think the gap of improvement from the Euros, it was the way this team is matured," he explained. "It's built on the game, it's built on every single day."
Rodri also acknowledged the support he received during his recovery and expressed gratitude to those who aided him, while also recognizing his own internal strength.
"Of course, sometimes things go well, things go wrong, but always the positiveness," Rodri said. "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."
The victory marks Spain's second World Cup title, following their win in 2010. While Rodri was individually recognized, the collective effort under coach De la Fuente was a defining characteristic of their campaign.
Following the World Cup triumph, Rodri's focus will return to his club, Manchester City, as his contract there enters its final year. His legacy with the national team, however, is already firmly established as the centerpiece of a disciplined and skillful squad.