De la Fuente predicted Rodri's possible premature return after 'amazing recovery'

Rodri, who was named Ballon d'Or in 2024, suffered a ruptured cruciate ligament in his right knee last October, which forced him to undergo surgery and meant, in principle, that he will not play again this season.

However, Luis de la Fuente said he could significantly shorten his return: "We have spoken to him recently. He is making an amazing recovery and perhaps, much sooner than expected, he will be able to play again and be with the national team straight away."

The coach made these statements at a press conference in Valencia to comment on the call-up he has made for Spain's Nations League tie against the Netherlands in a few days' time.

"Rodri is irreplaceable, he is the best in the world in his position but we are fortunate to have the second best in Martin Zubimendi and we have Marc Casado in the pipeline, who is another super player. It is a sign of the health and talent of Spanish football," he said.