Rodri’s latest physical setback has increased concerns at Barcelona, with the Spain midfielder now a major doubt for the important meeting with Atletico de Madrid.
The former Manchester City player was one of the headline signings of last summer’s transfer window. He arrived in Catalonia with a huge reputation after an outstanding World Cup and a transfer saga in which Barcelona prevailed over traditional rivals Real Madrid.
That move created enormous expectations. Rodri was expected to become the new leader of Barcelona’s midfield and one of the central figures in the club’s long-term project.
However, only a few months after his arrival, the initial excitement has gradually turned into concern. His footballing ability is not in question, but he has struggled to cope with a succession of matches and has experienced a growing number of physical problems.
The latest setback came on Tuesday evening. Rodri started Barcelona’s Champions League match against Aston Villa but was forced to leave the field at half-time.
Mundo Deportivo reported that the Spain midfielder felt discomfort in his right hamstring. Barcelona’s coaching staff decided not to take any risks and replaced him.
The injury comes at a difficult time, with the match against Atletico de Madrid only a few days away. According to AS, there is genuine concern within Barcelona and it now appears highly unlikely that Rodri will be able to feature.
Further examinations are required to determine the seriousness of the problem, but his condition has already prompted questions in the Catalan media.
Rodri’s recurring physical difficulties have become an increasing source of anxiety since he joined the club. Each time he appears close to producing his best form, another injury interrupts his progress and prevents him from establishing the consistency Barcelona had hoped for.
In Spain, there is now growing debate about whether he can withstand the demands of a congested fixture schedule and regain the fitness required to hold down a regular starting place. Since the beginning of the season, manager Hans Flick has worked hard to manage Rodri’s minutes and protect him as much as possible.
Despite those efforts, the midfielder still appears vulnerable, according to the French website Foot Mercato.
“Every new physical setback is now causing concern, to the point of raising questions about his long-term continuity,” the report said. “This situation represents a genuine dilemma for his manager. Barcelona must protect Rodri while also relying on him in decisive matches, meaning the coaching staff has to continually adjust how it uses the Spain midfielder, as happened against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, for example.”
The report added: “Under these circumstances, it is difficult to provide him with the rhythm required to recover his best level. Barcelona clearly hopes this latest setback will not lead to a lengthy absence, but the issue now goes beyond the possibility of missing the match against Atletico de Madrid.
“After joining the club as one of its biggest stars, Rodri must now prove that he can regain the fitness needed to meet the huge expectations placed on him. At Barcelona, time is very limited.”
