Rodri and Carvajal recalled for Spain immediately after knee injuries

And so both players immediately return to the national team setup. That is particularly remarkable in the case of Rodri.

The Ballon d'Or winner has only played fifteen minutes for Manchester City this season after suffering a setback in his knee recovery. His premature return to international duty raises questions not only about his physical condition but also about the potential conflict between club and country. It remains to be seen whether City manager Pep Guardiola will be pleased with the decision to call up such a key player at a moment when his fitness is still uncertain.

For Spain, however, the decision is more understandable. Rodri has become the heart of the team, dictating play from midfield with his intelligence, composure, and physical strength. His influence was particularly evident during the European Championship in 2024, where he dominated games and provided the platform for Spain to lift the trophy. Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s head coach, sees him as irreplaceable and is clearly willing to take the risk of calling him up even if he is not yet fully match fit.

Carvajal’s situation is slightly different but also notable. The veteran right-back has only just returned to action with Real Madrid, playing 87 minutes last weekend after a long spell of reduced involvement, during which he made just three substitute appearances. At 33 years old, Carvajal is no stranger to injuries, particularly muscle and joint issues, but his experience, defensive solidity, and leadership remain vital assets for both club and country. His recall suggests that Spain are prioritising continuity and stability in defence as they look to build on their European Championship success.

Both players carry symbolic weight for Spain. Rodri represents the new golden generation of Spanish football a player who combines tactical discipline with technical excellence and who has grown into one of the most reliable midfielders in world football. Carvajal, meanwhile, represents resilience and continuity, a defender who has been through the highs and lows with both Spain and Real Madrid and who still offers the competitive edge that younger players can learn from.

Spain’s upcoming fixtures underline the importance of having these leaders available. On 4 September, they travel to Sofia to face Bulgaria in a crucial World Cup qualifying match (20:45). Bulgaria may not have the pedigree of Europe’s elite, but they remain a tricky opponent at home, where the atmosphere and physical style of play often pose challenges. Just three days later, on 7 September, Spain face a far tougher test in Istanbul against Turkey (20:45). The Turkish side, known for its passionate supporters and unpredictable form, has often been a stumbling block for visiting teams. Winning in Istanbul is never straightforward, and Spain will need every ounce of experience and resilience to come away with three points.

For Luis de la Fuente, the return of Rodri and Carvajal could be decisive. Both players know what it takes to perform under pressure, and both have the kind of winning mentality that Spain will need in hostile environments. However, there are risks: pushing Rodri too soon could aggravate his knee problem, while Carvajal’s workload must be managed carefully to prevent further setbacks.

The international break may also reignite the long-standing debate about player workload. Guardiola, who has often been vocal about fixture congestion, is unlikely to welcome the idea of his star midfielder playing in two intense qualifiers so soon after returning from injury. Real Madrid may have similar concerns about Carvajal. But for Spain, balancing club interests with national team priorities has always been a delicate act, and de la Fuente is clearly choosing to prioritise results in what could be a defining moment in their World Cup qualification campaign.

Ultimately, the call-ups highlight both the ambition and the pressure surrounding Spain. Having won Euro 2024, expectations are high, and every qualifying match is viewed as a step toward confirming their status as one of the world’s top footballing nations. Rodri and Carvajal, even if not yet at peak condition, bring a level of experience and quality that could make all the difference.

If Spain succeed in Bulgaria and Turkey, the risk of recalling two players just returning from injuries will be justified. If not, questions will surely follow about whether it was too soon. Either way, all eyes will be on Rodri and Carvajal as they step back onto the international stage.