1What’s in a name?
His first name isn’t Rodri – it’s actually Rodrigo. His full name is Rodrigo Hernández Cascante
2The story begins
Born in Madrid in 1996, Rodri joined Atlético Madrid’s youth set-up in 2007 aged 11, from CF Rayo Majadahonda.
3Chance to impress
Rodri moved on from Atletico in 2013 and subsequently signed with Villarreal CF
4Showcasing his talent
The midfielder made his debut for Villarreal’s first-team in December 2015, starting in a 2–0 Copa del Rey home win against SD Huesca.
5La Liga bow
He made his maiden La Liga appearance in April 2016, featuring as a second-half substitute in a 2-1 defeat away at Rayo Vallecano.
6Goalden beginning
Rodri scored his first goal in the Spanish top-flight in February 2018, netting the opener for Villarreal in a 1–1 draw away at Espanyol
7A degree of intelligence
He balanced his playing time at Villarreal with studying for a degree at the Universidad de Castellon in eastern Spain.
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8Halls of residence
Rodri studied Business Studies and Economics, and he ensured he never missed a lecture despite his busy football schedule while living in the university’s halls of residence.
9Nothing flash
Rather than splash out on a high-performance car, Rodri’s first vehicle was a modest second-hand model.
10Senior cap
After playing for Spain at Under-16, Under-19 and Under-21 levels, Rodri was called into the full Spain squad for the first time in March 2018 ahead of two friendlies with Germany and Argentina.
11Grand stage
Rodri made his international debut for Spain away to Germany that month, replacing Thiago Alcântara late in the game in a 1-1 draw Düsseldorf.
12Return to Madrid
After making 64 La Liga appearances for Villarreal, Rodri returned to Atlético Madrid in May 2018. During a hugely impressive 2018/19 La Liga campaign, he made 34 appearances for Atletico, scoring three goals.
Come and see City’s new signing today at 5.30pm at the City Store.
