Spain national team coach Luis De la Fuente has likened midfielder Rodri to Argentine legend Lionel Messi, calling him "the Messi of Spanish football". This praise comes on the back of La Roja's historic second World Cup triumph, where the 30-year-old Rodri captained the side and won the Golden Ball award.
The news, originally reported by Sportskeeda, arrives as the Spanish team enjoys a rich vein of form. Spain currently tops their World Cup qualifying group with 7 points from two wins and a draw, riding a five-match winning streak. Their next test is an away fixture against England on September 26.
What exactly did De la Fuente say about Rodri?
Luis De la Fuente was effusive in his praise for his captain. "It will be easier for him to adapt, as Rodri is the Messi of Spanish football, so he will adapt well to any team, in any circumstance," the coach stated. He added that the Barcelona player is "the best in the world in his position".
Rodri was a cornerstone of Spain's World Cup-winning campaign. His midfield leadership and technical quality were decisive. The team capped their run with a 1-0 victory over Messi's Argentina on July 19, a match that sealed their tournament dominance.
What is the context of Messi's retirement?
The comparison takes on added significance following Lionel Messi's retirement from international football, announced on Monday, August 31. Messi ended a 21-year career with Argentina, amassing 207 caps and 125 goals while winning three major honors.
It is worth recalling that during his youth at Barcelona's academy, Messi was approached about representing Spain. The Argentine star, however, chose to wait for his homeland's call, making his senior debut in 2005 at age 18. His legacy now contrasts with the rise of a new reference point in Iberian football.
How is Spain shaping up for their next match?
The national squad approaches its next commitment with enviable morale and statistics. Besides leading the standings with a 4-point cushion over Cape Verde Islands, the team displays impressive defensive solidity, having scored 5 goals and conceded none in this phase. Fans can track the team's progress on our standings page.
The squad at De la Fuente's disposal is brimming with talent, much of it concentrated at FC Barcelona. Rodri will share a club dressing room with several international teammates like Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Pedri, Dani Olmo, Pau Cubarsi, Joan Garcia, and Eric Garcia. This club-country synergy is a valuable asset.
What does this comparison mean for the future?
De la Fuente's anointing of Rodri as "the Spanish Messi" is not a casual compliment. It reflects the responsibility and weight the midfielder carries as the leader of the project. His move to Barcelona from Manchester City, for €76.5 million on a contract until 2030, underscores his franchise-player status.
With the permanent exit of a legend like Messi from the international scene, figures like Rodri emerge to define a new era. Spain, with its winning streak and solid collective performance, shows it does not rely on one man, but acknowledges in its captain an exceptional talent. The team is already focused on the challenge against England, a match you can find on our fixtures schedule.
