Manchester City midfielder Rodri has been charged by the English Football Association (FA) following his remarks questioning the neutrality of referees after City’s controversial 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur on February 1.
Rodri expressed frustration over referee Robert Jones’ decision to allow Dominic Solanke’s goal, which he felt should have been disallowed after the Tottenham striker appeared to kick the back of City defender Marc Guehi.
“I know we won too much and the people don’t want us to win, but the referee has to be neutral,” Rodri said in a post-match interview, adding that the decision was “not fair because we work so hard.”
The FA confirmed on Friday that the 29-year-old faces a charge of misconduct under FA Rule 3.1, which covers comments implying bias or questioning the integrity of match officials. Rodri has until February 18 to respond, and a suspension is possible if he is found guilty.
A ban would represent a significant setback for City as they aim to close a four-point gap on Premier League leaders Arsenal. Similar cases include former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who received a touchline ban in 2023 for comments about referee Paul Tierney.
