Spain captain Rodri commented on winning the 2026 World Cup and receiving the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player. After the match, he admitted he had not yet fully grasped the magnitude of the event. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
"We are a bit in shock right now, even myself. I can't put it into words. I think we are on cloud nine, but for me it was a very tough time. I just want new generations to see in my example that when you fall, you can get up again. That's my philosophy for life," Rodri was quoted as saying by Goal.
The Manchester City midfielder suffered a serious knee injury in September 2024, a few weeks before being awarded the Ballon d'Or. After recovery, he returned to his previous level and became a key player for Spain at the World Cup.
Rodri also spoke about the team's mindset going into the final against Argentina.
"Of course, sometimes everything goes well, sometimes badly, but you always have to stay positive. Before the game I told the guys: 'We have to play.' We have to look them in the eye. We want this game. Then life gives you the World Cup or not, but we were brave. And I was brave when I was down. So I want to thank all the people who helped me. But honestly, I also want to thank myself – for those moments," Rodri said.
After defeating Argentina, Spain extended their unbeaten run to 38 matches, setting a new record in international football. Rodri believes this success is a continuation of the work started after winning Euro 2024.
"I think the progress made after Euro is explained by how much this team has matured. It's the result of the game, it's the result of every day," the Spain captain added.
Recall that Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in the final. Regular time ended goalless, and Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time. This title is the second in Spain's history; the team previously won the World Cup in 2010.