Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente has come to the defense of Manchester City's Rodri, labeling the criticism directed at the midfielder as “an insult to footballing intelligence.” De la Fuente's remarks follow a wave of skepticism regarding Rodri's selection for the national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, particularly due to concerns about his injury history leading up to the tournament.

Rodri's Stellar World Cup Performance

Despite the doubts surrounding him, Rodri emerged as a pivotal figure for Spain, guiding the team through to the final where they triumphed over Argentina. The 30-year-old showcased his exceptional skills, achieving a remarkable 93.4% passing accuracy throughout the tournament, while Spain conceded only one goal. His outstanding contributions earned him the Golden Ball, recognizing him as the tournament's best player, and added to his accolades that include the 2024 Ballon d’Or and a Champions League title.

De la Fuente's Strong Support

Throughout the tournament, De la Fuente consistently defended Rodri against what he considered unjust criticism. Following Spain's victory, he reiterated his belief in Rodri's abilities during an interview with Spanish TVE, stating, “With all due respect – and without wishing to offend anyone – I said that doubting Rodri was, quite obviously, an insult to one’s footballing intelligence.” He further emphasized Rodri's status as “the best player in the world in his position,” while also acknowledging the talent of Martín Zubimendi, who he described as “surely the second best in the world.” De la Fuente praised Rodri for his clarity, vision, and balance on the field, calling him an inspiration for the team.

As Rodri's performances on the world stage have intensified discussions about his future at Manchester City, it has been reported that Real Madrid has reached a personal agreement with the player, although negotiations between the clubs regarding a transfer fee are still ongoing. City has communicated their asking price, highlighting the complexities surrounding Rodri's situation as he continues to shine in his role.