On Sunday, Rodri will lead Spain out against Argentina in the final of the World Cup – and he’ll be looking to dominate as he has all tournament.
The tournament concludes with the reigning champions of Europe and the world, and it promises to be a fantastic contest.
Should Rodri be considered the best defensive midfielder of all time if he wins the World Cup with Spain? 🤔
The Ballon d'Or winner is one victory away from adding the ultimate international prize…
Spain started slowly but have gradually got into their groove, although they have been solid defensively from the outset and throughout.
Argentina have had several scares. But the brilliance of Lionel Messi and their never-say-die attitude will make them a very tough opponent.
But many eyes will be on Rodri, a man who has been absolutely stupendous this tournament – and here are some of the numbers to prove that.
- READ MORE: Who is Rodri? Get to know Man City’s modest midfield maestro who won a Champions League final
How Rodri has dominated at the World Cup
Pep Guardiola had predicted last October that we would see Rodri back at his best at the 2026 World Cup, and the former Manchester City manager was absolutely spot on.
As per Squawka, Rodri has completed more final third passes than any other player at the 2026 World Cup, with 173 (from an attempted 187).
The 92.5% final third passing accuracy is the highest of any player at the tournament (of players to make 100+).
Opta Joe have reported that Rodri has also had the most touches at the tournament with 794. He has also completed the most passes overall (655), and the most line-breaking passes (106).
WhoScored provides more data. They say that out of all midfielders at the tournament, Rodri has managed 100 or more touches in six games. That puts him way ahead of the competition, with Leandro Paredes the next player on the list having managed to do that in three games.
As per Squawka again, before England and Argentina played, Rodri had:
- Most touches (794)
- Most accurate passes (655)
- Most accurate final 1/3 passes (173)
- Most duels won (41)
- Most possessions won (34)
- Most tackles (22)
- = Most open-play chances created (9)
There has been some talk about Rodri’s future leading up to this World Cup.
He previously wouldn’t be drawn on it himself as he understandably wanted to focus on the tournament.
But it will soon be over, and City then have to get to work ensuring that he does not leave the club, amid interest from Real Madrid.
There were fears about Rodri getting back to his high level after he sustained that ACL injury, especially with other little injuries then setting him back.
But he’s starting to look like that incredible player of old again, and the World Cup he’s had has been extremely encouraging. Hopefully it will end in triumph for him and yet another trophy in his already bursting cabinet.
There’s been talk of Ayyoub Bouaddi coming in, which some think may indicate Rodri could be off.
City simply cannot let that happen.
