Early Life in Madrid: A Humble Beginning
Born on June 22, 1996, in Madrid, Rodrigo Hernández Cascante grew up in a middle-class family. His father was a businessman, and his mother was a teacher. Rodri started playing football at a young age, joining the local club Rayo Majadahonda before moving to Atlético Madrid's academy at 12 years old.
At Atlético, Rodri progressed through the youth ranks but was released at 17 because coaches thought he was too slow and lacked the physicality for top-level football. The rejection was a turning point—he used it as motivation to prove them wrong. He joined Villarreal’s academy and made his senior debut in 2015 at 19 years old. His performances in the Segunda División earned him a move to Villarreal’s first team in 2016.
The Villarreal Breakthrough
At Villarreal, Rodri quickly became a regular starter. In the 2017-18 season, he played 37 matches in La Liga and helped Villarreal finish fifth. His ability to break up play, distribute the ball, and contribute in attack made him one of the most promising young midfielders in Spain. His performances earned him a call-up to the Spanish national team in 2018.
Rodri’s style was already clear—he was a holding midfielder with exceptional vision and composure. He could shield the defense, win the ball back, and start attacks with accurate passes. His physicality and aerial ability made him a complete midfielder. In the summer of 2018, Atlético Madrid paid €20 million to bring him back to the club, activating his release clause.
The Atlético Madrid Return
Back at Atlético, Rodri played under Diego Simeone, one of the best defensive coaches in the world. Simeone’s system suited Rodri perfectly—he became the anchor of the midfield, allowing players like Koke and Saúl to push forward. In the 2018-19 season, he played 34 matches in La Liga and helped Atlético finish second.
Rodri’s performances attracted interest from Europe’s biggest clubs. Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, saw him as the perfect successor to Fernandinho. In the summer of 2019, City paid €70 million—a club-record fee at the time—to sign him. The move was a big step, and Rodri was ready to test himself in the Premier League.
The Manchester City Era: Becoming the World's Best
Rodri arrived at Manchester City in 2019 and quickly adapted to Pep Guardiola’s possession-based style. His first season was solid—he played 35 matches in the Premier League and helped City win the League Cup. The following season (2020-21), he became a regular starter and helped City win the Premier League and reach the Champions League final.
Rodri’s peak came in the 2022-23 season. He played almost every match, helping City win the Treble—Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. His performance in the Champions League final against Inter Milan was outstanding—he controlled the midfield and scored the winning goal with a volley from outside the box. The goal was a defining moment in his career and helped City win their first Champions League title.
In the 2023-24 season, Rodri was even better. He went 74 matches unbeaten in all competitions, a record for a player in Europe’s top leagues. His ability to control games, win the ball back, and contribute in attack made him the most important player in City’s team. He won the Ballon d’Or in 2024, becoming the first holding midfielder to win the award since Luka Modrić in 2018.
Style of Play and Complete Midfielder
Rodri is the complete modern holding midfielder. He is 6ft 3in tall, physically strong, and excellent in the air. His ability to read the game and intercept passes makes him one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. He ranks in the top 1% for interceptions and tackles among midfielders in Europe’s top leagues.
His passing is exceptional—he can play short, quick passes or long diagonal balls to switch play. His vision and composure under pressure make him the perfect player for Guardiola’s system. He also contributes in attack, scoring crucial goals from distance or arriving late in the box. His work rate is outstanding—he covers more ground than most midfielders and is always available for a pass.
Rodri’s intelligence is his greatest asset. He positions himself perfectly to shield the defense and start attacks. His ability to control the tempo of games makes him indispensable. Guardiola has called him “the best in the world in his position,” and few would disagree.
International Career with Spain
Rodri made his senior debut for Spain in 2018 and has over 50 caps. He was part of the squad that won Euro 2024, playing a key role in the midfield. His partnership with Pedri and Gavi has been crucial for Spain’s success. Rodri’s performances in the tournament were outstanding, and he was named in the Team of the Tournament.
Spain’s style under Luis de la Fuente suits Rodri perfectly—he is the anchor of the midfield, allowing the attacking players to express themselves. His leadership and composure have made him one of the first names on the team sheet.
Records and Achievements
Rodri’s list of records is impressive. He holds the record for the longest unbeaten run in Europe’s top leagues (74 matches). He has won five Premier League titles, one Champions League, and numerous domestic cups with Manchester City. He won the Ballon d’Or in 2024 and has been named in the PFA Team of the Year multiple times.
Personality, Mentality, and Off-Field Life
Off the pitch, Rodri is known for his humility and intelligence. He has a degree in business administration and management from the University of Castellón, completed while playing for Villarreal. He is articulate and thoughtful in interviews, often speaking about the importance of education and hard work.
Rodri is a family man and keeps his private life out of the spotlight. He is involved in charitable work, particularly with children’s education projects in Spain. His calm demeanor and professionalism make him a role model for young players.
The Future: A Career for the Ages
At 29 years old, Rodri is in his prime. With Manchester City, he has the chance to win more trophies and add to his legacy. His partnership with Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne has been one of the most successful in Premier League history, and the team remains a force in Europe.
For Spain, he is a key player and could lead the team to more major trophies. His journey from being released by Atlético Madrid to becoming the world's best midfielder has been remarkable, and the best is yet to come. Rodri is not just a talent—he is a leader, and his story is far from over.
Disclaimer: These articles are for general entertainment and inspiration only—not professional analysis or official advice. Every player’s career and story is different; opinions expressed are subjective. Consult reliable sources for in-depth research. See our full Disclaimer.
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