Biography
| Real Name | Rodrigo Hernández Cascante |
| Nick Name | Rodri |
| Date of Birth | 22 June 1996 |
| Age | 28 Years Old (till 2024) |
| Place of Birth | Madrid, Spain |
| Nationality | Spanish |
| Religion | Christian |
| Profession | Footballer (Defensive midfielder) |
| Club | Manchester City |
Family
| Father | not known |
| Mother | not known |
| Brother | not known |
| Sister | not known |
| Spous/ Girlfriend | in a relationship with a woman named Laura |
| Kids |
Physical Measurements
| Height | 6 feet 3 inch (1.91 m) |
| Weight | 71 kg |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Black |
| Body Measurements | Chest: Waist: Biceps: |
Education
| School | Not Known |
| College | Not Known |
| Qualification | Graduated |
Career
| Youth | 2013–2015 Villarreal |
| Villarreal | 2015-2018 |
| Atlético Madrid | 2018-2019 |
| Manchester City | 2019-Present |
| Manchester City Jersey Number | 16 |
| Spain National Debut | 11 September 2018 |
| Spain Jersey Number | 16 |
Money Factor
| Net Worth | $15.6 million dollars |
Rodri: The Journey of a Football Star
Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, widely known as Rodri, is a Spanish professional footballer who has made a significant impact in the world of football. As a defensive midfielder, Rodri plays a crucial role in both club and international football. Currently representing Manchester City in the English Premier League and the Spanish national team, Rodri has earned a reputation for his intelligence on the ball, exceptional passing ability, and defensive prowess. This article explores Rodri’s journey from his early life to his rise as one of the best midfielders in the game, highlighting his records and achievements year by year.
Early Life and Youth Career
Rodri was born on June 22, 1996, in Madrid, Spain. Growing up in a football-loving country, Rodri developed a passion for the sport at a young age. He began playing football in local youth teams, and his talent was quickly recognized. At the age of 11, he joined Atlético Madrid’s youth academy, where he started honing his skills.
While at Atlético Madrid, Rodri faced challenges. In 2013, after years of training, he was released from the academy because the coaches felt he was not physically strong enough. This setback could have ended his football dreams, but Rodri remained determined. He joined Villarreal CF, where he continued to work hard and develop his skills.
Villarreal: The Beginning of a Professional Career
Rodri made his professional debut for Villarreal in December 2015 during a Copa del Rey match. He quickly impressed the coaching staff with his performances, showcasing his ability to control the midfield and distribute the ball effectively. Over the next two seasons, he became a regular starter for the team.
2016-2017 Season: Rising Star
In the 2016-2017 season, Rodri played a vital role in Villarreal’s campaign, making 26 appearances in La Liga. His ability to break up plays and pass accurately helped the team secure a mid-table finish. His performances drew attention from several top clubs, but he remained focused on his development.
2017-2018 Season: Making a Name
The 2017-2018 season was a breakout year for Rodri. He played 34 matches in all competitions, showcasing his versatility and skill. His passing accuracy was impressive, often exceeding 90%, which made him one of the most efficient midfielders in the league. His strong performances caught the eye of clubs across Europe, and by the end of the season, Rodri had solidified his place as one of La Liga’s rising stars.
Return to Atlético Madrid
In May 2018, after just one successful season with Villarreal, Rodri made a significant move back to Atlético Madrid for a transfer fee of €20 million. This transfer was seen as a chance for redemption and growth for Rodri, who had returned to the club that initially released him.
2018-2019 Season: Key Player for Atlético
In the 2018-2019 season, Rodri quickly became a key player for Atlético Madrid. Under coach Diego Simeone, he adapted to a more defensive role, focusing on breaking up opposition attacks and controlling the midfield. Rodri made 47 appearances in all competitions, helping the team finish second in La Liga and reach the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League.
His ability to read the game and his strong physical presence made him a vital part of Atlético’s defensive setup. He was often tasked with marking the opposing team’s key playmakers, showcasing his skills in one-on-one situations. Rodri’s passing was also a highlight, as he frequently launched attacks with precise long balls.
Joining Manchester City
In July 2019, Rodri made a record-breaking transfer to Manchester City for €70 million, making him the most expensive Spanish player at the time. Pep Guardiola, the team’s manager, had been impressed with Rodri’s performances in La Liga and saw him as the perfect fit for his possession-based style of play.
2019-2020 Season: Adapting to the Premier League
Rodri’s first season in the Premier League (2019-2020) was one of adaptation. The English league is known for its physicality and speed, which required Rodri to adjust his game. He made 52 appearances in all competitions, contributing to Manchester City’s success in the EFL Cup and helping the team finish second in the Premier League.
Although the team did not win the league that year, Rodri’s performances were solid. He often played as a deep-lying midfielder, breaking up attacks and transitioning the ball from defense to attack. He quickly established himself as a key player in Guardiola’s setup.
Establishing Himself at Manchester City
2020-2021 Season: Becoming a Central Figure
In the 2020-2021 season, Rodri became a central figure in Manchester City’s midfield. He played 53 matches across all competitions and was instrumental in the team’s success, helping them win the Premier League and Carabao Cup. His ability to control the midfield allowed City to dominate games, and he became known for his impressive passing range and tactical awareness.
Rodri’s standout moments included crucial tackles, key interceptions, and perfectly timed passes that often set up goals for his teammates. His defensive contributions were just as important as his attacking support, making him a complete midfielder.
UEFA Champions League Final
Although Manchester City reached the UEFA Champions League final, they lost to Chelsea. Despite the disappointment, Rodri’s growth as a player was evident. He became a fan favorite and a respected figure in the dressing room.
2021-2022 Season: A Year of Growth
The 2021-2022 season marked another step forward for Rodri. He continued to excel in his role and played a crucial part in Manchester City’s title-winning campaign.
Key Performances and Goals
Rodri scored several important goals during the season, including a stunning strike against Arsenal in January 2022, where he scored from outside the box to equalize for City. His ability to contribute offensively, alongside his defensive duties, made him one of the standout players of the season.
By the end of the season, Rodri had made 56 appearances in all competitions, helping City secure the Premier League title. His performances in the league earned him recognition as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe.
2022-2023 Season: Champions League Glory
The 2022-2023 season was historic for Rodri and Manchester City. The team achieved a treble, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League.
UEFA Champions League Final Heroics
Rodri played a vital role in the Champions League final against Inter Milan. In a tense match, he scored the only goal, leading Manchester City to a 1-0 victory. This goal not only secured the title but also made Rodri a hero among fans and a key figure in the club’s history.
His performances throughout the season showcased his ability to perform at the highest level, especially in crucial matches. Rodri made 60 appearances across all competitions, demonstrating his importance to the team.
Key Records and Statistics
Rodri’s time at Manchester City has been marked by impressive statistics that highlight his contributions:
- Pass Completion Rate: Rodri consistently maintains a pass completion rate above 90%, showing his reliability in possession.
- Tackles and Interceptions: He averages around 3 tackles and 2 interceptions per game, demonstrating his defensive capabilities.
- Goals Scored: In the 2022-2023 season, Rodri scored 8 goals, a remarkable feat for a defensive midfielder.
International Career: Representing Spain
Rodri made his debut for the Spanish national team in 2018. Since then, he has been an important part of the squad, contributing to Spain’s efforts in international competitions.
UEFA Euro 2020
Rodri played a significant role in UEFA Euro 2020, helping Spain reach the semifinals. His ability to control the midfield and break up plays was crucial in several matches. Although Spain lost to Italy in the semifinals, Rodri’s performances earned him praise from fans and pundits alike.
UEFA Nations League
In 2021, Rodri helped Spain win the UEFA Nations League, further solidifying his position as a key player for the national team. His contributions in both defensive and offensive phases of the game were vital to Spain’s success.
Playing Style and Strengths
Rodri’s playing style is characterized by several key strengths that make him stand out as a midfielder:
- Tactical Awareness: Rodri has an exceptional ability to read the game. He understands when to press, when to hold his position, and when to transition between defensive and offensive roles.
- Passing Ability: His passing range is impressive, allowing him to switch play and find teammates with both short and long passes. He often initiates attacks from deep in the midfield.
- Defensive Skills: Rodri is excellent at breaking up opposition plays, making crucial tackles, and intercepting passes. His physical presence helps him win duels against opposing players.
- Composure: One of Rodri’s best traits is his calmness under pressure. He rarely panics when facing opponents, allowing him to make smart decisions in critical moments.
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. Versatility: While primarily a defensive midfielder, Rodri can also play as a central defender if needed, showcasing his adaptability on the pitch.
Personal Life and Character
Off the pitch, Rodri is known for being humble and focused. Despite his success, he maintains a low profile and avoids the celebrity lifestyle that many athletes embrace. He values hard work and education, having pursued a degree in business administration while developing his football career.
Rodri’s character has earned him respect among teammates and coaches. His commitment to improving his game and helping his team succeed reflects his professionalism and dedication.
The Future of Rodri
At just 27 years old, Rodri has already achieved so much, but his future in football looks even brighter. With many years ahead of him, he has the potential to win more titles and break records. As Manchester City continues to compete at the highest level, Rodri will remain a key player in their quest for success.
Potential Records to Achieve
- Most Appearances: If Rodri maintains his fitness and performance level, he could set records for the most appearances for both Manchester City and the Spanish national team.
- Trophies: Rodri has already won several major trophies and will aim to add more to his collection in the coming years.
Conclusion
Rodri’s journey from a young boy in Madrid to a world-class midfielder is a testament to his hard work, determination, and love for football. His rise to the top has been marked by significant achievements, impressive performances, and a commitment to excellence.
As he continues to develop and contribute to his club and country, Rodri serves as an inspiration to young footballers everywhere. His story shows that with dedication and perseverance, dreams can become a reality. The future looks bright for Rodri, and fans eagerly anticipate what he will accomplish next in his remarkable career.
FAQs about Rodri
1. Who is Rodri?
Rodri, full name Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for Manchester City and the Spanish national team.
2. When was Rodri born?
Rodri was born on June 22, 1996, in Madrid, Spain.
3. Which clubs has Rodri played for?
Rodri began his career at Atlético Madrid, then moved to Villarreal, returned to Atlético Madrid, and is currently playing for Manchester City.
4. What position does Rodri play?
Rodri primarily plays as a defensive midfielder, but he can also play as a central defender.
5. What are Rodri’s main strengths?
Rodri is known for his tactical awareness, excellent passing ability, strong defensive skills, composure under pressure, and versatility on the field.
6. Has Rodri won any major titles?
Yes, Rodri has won several major titles, including the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, and UEFA Champions League with Manchester City, as well as the UEFA Nations League with Spain.
7. What is Rodri’s playing style like?
Rodri’s playing style involves controlling the midfield, breaking up opposition plays, and initiating attacks with accurate passes. He is known for his ability to read the game and make smart decisions.
8. What are some of Rodri’s career highlights?
Some highlights include scoring the winning goal in the UEFA Champions League final in 2023, helping Manchester City achieve a treble, and being a key player for Spain in international tournaments.
9. How many goals has Rodri scored for Manchester City?
Rodri has scored multiple goals in his time at Manchester City, including key goals during crucial matches, with his tally reaching notable numbers in recent seasons.
10. Is Rodri involved in any charitable activities?
While specific details about his charitable activities may not be widely publicized, many professional athletes, including Rodri, often engage in various charitable efforts and community support initiatives.