Rodri has earned significant praise from the Spanish press after anchoring his nation to a 2-0 World Cup semi-final victory over France.
The Manchester City midfielder was at the heart of Spain's controlled performance as goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro sent the European champions through to Sunday's final.
French media had expected Didier Deschamps' side to overcome Spain, but Rodri and his teammates had other ideas. The 30-year-old has been a cornerstone of Spain's tournament, helping them concede just once across the entire competition.
Spanish outlet Eldesmarque rated Rodri at 8.5 out of 10 — the second-highest mark on the team behind goalscorer Porro — and offered a simple explanation: “Spain plays the way Rodri wants. He was all over the pitch and even helped out defensively.”
It is quite the turnaround for Rodri, who arrived at this World Cup on the back of a difficult season at City disrupted by injuries.
Stats underline his influence
The numbers back up the plaudits. According to Fotmob, Rodri completed 87 per cent of his passes, made four tackles, completed two clearances, won seven duels and won all four of his aerial duels against France.
Those contributions proved vital in keeping a dangerous French attack at bay as they searched in vain for a way through Spain's stubborn backline.
Spain now await the winner of the other semi-final between England and Argentina, with the final scheduled for Sunday.