Rodri and Carvajal Return to Spain Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

Spain’s national team received a significant boost ahead of their upcoming World Cup qualifiers with the return of key players Rodri and Dani Carvajal. Both players have been sidelined due to knee injuries but have been included in Luis de la Fuente’s squad for matches against Bulgaria and Turkey on September 4th and 7th, respectively .

Rodri’s Road to Recovery

Ballon d’Or holder Rodri has been recovering from a torn ACL in his right knee sustained in September 2024 . He also experienced a groin injury at the Club World Cup, adding to his recent injury setbacks. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has been carefully reintegrating Rodri into the lineup .

Carvajal Back in Contention

Real Madrid veteran Dani Carvajal also makes a return to the Spain squad after a period of absence due to a knee injury . His inclusion adds experience and stability to the Spanish defense.

Recent Injury Concerns for Rodri

Rodri was previously forced to withdraw from the Spain squad for matches against Georgia and Bulgaria due to a hamstring injury sustained during Manchester City’s Premier League match against Brentford in October 2025 . Despite downplaying the severity of the injury, medical tests confirmed the issue, leading to his withdrawal from the national team .

Spain’s World Cup Qualification Campaign

Spain, the reigning European champions, are aiming to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup. The team boasts a talented midfield including Pedri, Fabián Ruiz, and Martín Zubimendi, alongside Rodri . They also have the exciting young talent of Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal .