Las Palmas captain Kirian Rodríguez has announced he will be stepping away from football for six months after receiving confirmation that his Hodgkin lymphoma has returned. The 28-year-old midfielder, who has been a crucial figure for the team this season with 21 LaLiga starts, made the emotional announcement during a Thursday press conference.
"They told me yesterday that I have relapsed from cancer," Rodríguez revealed. "I have the disease again, I have to stop for another six months and undergo chemotherapy treatment. I wanted to be the one to say it. I have to stop again, fight this disease again." Despite the setback, the captain remained optimistic, stating, "I hope to see you again in 25-26 season. I am 100% convinced that it will be in the First Division."
This marks Rodríguez's second battle with cancer, having first been diagnosed in August 2022. After undergoing treatment, he made an inspiring return to the pitch on April 30, 2023. Las Palmas has rallied behind their captain, posting a message of support: "We know the path. Together in this fight, captain!"
The football community has shown strong solidarity with Rodríguez. Both LaLiga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) extended their support through social media. LaLiga posted on X: "Much encouragement to Kirian Rodríguez, the @UDLP_Official and all its fans. It's time to show your strength again, but we are sure that you will return soon. We are with you."
The RFEF added their own message of support: "Much encouragement Kirian. Now you stop, but we are already counting days until we see you again on the grass. For sure this battle you will win by a big margin."
Rodríguez, who came up through Las Palmas's youth system and joined the first team in summer 2019, has made 154 appearances for the club, establishing himself as a key figure in the team's success. His absence will be deeply felt, but the focus now turns to supporting his recovery and eventual return to the field.
