Rodrigo, journey to the center of Spains defense

In Braga, in the match that sealed Spain's qualification for the final four of the UEFA Nations League after winning against Portugal, Morata's goal after a wonderful assist from Nico Williams was highlighted. The Spanish national team won in an important place, but there is also a detail that remains from that match and continues this World Cup in Qatar. Rodrigo Hernández, a player who is used to playing as a defensive midfielder, moved back and played well as a centre-back, a position he repeated against Costa Rica and Germany.

"I had already played as a centre-back in my team (Manchester City), especially in my first season," Rodrigo summarised. It's not a new position for him, but he does not usually play in the centre of defence either. In Braga everything went well and the technical staff liked him in that position that much that he hasn't changed it. Obviously, he has had to adapt to a very different role that demands a different concept of the game.

"The movements have nothing to do with each other, they are very explosive, always moving laterally," explains Rodrigo, who now has to watch out when the team doesn't have the ball. "You need synchronisation with your team-mates, there has to be a lot of communication in the centre-back position".

Rodrigo is a very demanding player and watches videos to correct himself and learn. He also takes the opportunity to follow all the games he can at this World Cup and take references. He is very excited about the match against Japan, which will mark the road ahead for Spain. "We're expecting a very tough match. They're a close team, they put a lot of effort. We'll play our game and try to win, as always. We're not going to go out and speculate. This is the opinion of Rodrigo Hernandez, an excellent defensive midfielder who also shines now as a centre-back.