As the Real Mallorca squad gathered at Son Bibiloni for Thursday’s training session, a notable absentee caught everyone’s attention: Dani Rodríguez. The midfielder was forced to sit out due to some nagging physical issues, which the club described as “not very significant.” With just four days to go before their visit to San Mamés, Rodríguez’s absence from the training pitch has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming match. According to sources close to the club, the decision to keep him out of practice was purely precautionary, but it’s undeniable that his presence in the lineup against Athletic Club is now shrouded in uncertainty.
The ‘tigre de Betanzos’ has been an instrumental figure in Real Mallorca’s plans, and his potential absence would undoubtedly be felt. As it turns out, Rodríguez had to cut his Wednesday session short due to a foot issue, which prompted his early withdrawal from the training grounds. With the Athletic Club match looming, the coaching staff is taking a cautious approach, and it’s likely that a decision on his participation will be made at the last minute. As things stand, it’s difficult to see him starting, and the team may opt not to risk exacerbating the injury.
A Key Player in Arrasate’s Plans
Dani Rodríguez’s importance to the team cannot be overstated, as he has been an ever-present figure in Arrasate’s lineup. Now in his seventh season with the club, the 36-year-old midfielder has been in excellent form, scoring four goals and providing six assists so far this season. His most recent contribution was a beautifully weighted pass to Asano, which resulted in a stunning goal against Alavés last Sunday. With numbers like these, it’s no wonder that Rodríguez is considered a vital cog in the machine.
As the team prepares to face Athletic Club, there’s a sense of uncertainty surrounding the starting lineup. While Jagoba Arrasate may opt to tweak his formation, potentially introducing an extra defender, Rodríguez’s injury issues could see him relegated to the bench or even left out of the squad altogether. If he does travel to San Mamés, it’s likely that the coaching staff will err on the side of caution, prioritizing the defence over attacking flair. Only time will tell if Rodríguez will be fit enough to take the field, but for now, his status remains very much up in the air.