Rodri is facing possible disciplinary action after being charged by the Football Association (FA) over comments he made about match officials following Manchester City’s recent Premier League draw with Tottenham Hotspur.
Post-Match Remarks Spark FA Action
The controversy stems from City’s 2–2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, where Rodri voiced frustration about refereeing decisions particularly the opening goal scored by Dominic Solanke.
The Spanish midfielder argued that the goal should not have stood, claiming the striker fouled a defender in the build-up. Speaking after the match, Rodri said the decision was “not fair” and stressed that referees must remain neutral, adding that repeated decisions had gone against his team.
He also suggested the disallowed foul had a decisive impact on the match’s outcome, saying that without that first goal, City might have won the game.
Misconduct Charge Explained
The FA formally charged Rodri with misconduct, stating that he had: “acted improperly by implying bias or questioning a match official’s integrity.”
Rodri has been given until February 18 to respond to the charge. If found guilty, he could face a suspension — a scenario that would represent a significant setback for Manchester City as they continue their title challenge.
Guardiola Offers Measured Support
City manager Pep Guardiola stopped short of directly criticizing officials but admitted confusion over the decision to allow the goal.
He suggested that if a defender had committed a similar challenge on an attacker, a penalty would likely have been awarded — hinting at perceived inconsistency in officiating.
Guardiola also acknowledged the psychological impact of the decision, noting that momentum became difficult to manage after the goal was given.
Potential Sporting Impact
Any suspension for Rodri could prove costly. The Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder is central to City’s tactical structure, dictating tempo and shielding the defense.
With the club locked in a tight Premier League title race, losing such an influential figure even temporarily could affect both domestic and cup ambitions.
What Happens Next
The immediate next step is Rodri’s formal response to the FA charge. Disciplinary panels will then review the case and determine whether his comments breached regulations governing criticism of match officials.
Until a ruling is issued, the possibility of a ban remains — leaving Manchester City waiting anxiously as one of their most important players faces an uncertain short-term future.
