Problems for Manchester City! Team star faces multi-match ban over referee criticism
Manchester City are facing serious trouble right in the heat of the title race. They could lose one of their key players.
Details: According to TeamTalk, the English Football Association (FA) has charged midfielder Rodri following his controversial comments about the refereeing after the match against Tottenham (2-2), which took place on February 1.
The investigation was sparked by the Spaniard's post-match interview with Stan Sport. Rodri expressed his dissatisfaction with referee Robert Jones’ decision to allow Spurs’ opening goal in no uncertain terms, insisting there had been a foul on Marc Guéhi. However, the charge is not just about criticism—it's that Rodri effectively questioned the referees’ neutrality.
"I know we've been winning too much and people don't want us to win again, but the referee has to be neutral. Honestly, it’s unfair," Rodri said in that interview.
The FA’s statement reads:
“Rodri has been charged with improper conduct. It is alleged that the midfielder questioned the integrity of match officials, which breaches FA Rule 3.1. The player has until Wednesday, February 18, to respond.”
If Rodri is found guilty, he faces a multi-match suspension. This could be a devastating blow for Pep Guardiola: Manchester City have just reignited their title challenge, cutting the gap to Arsenal to three points with 12 rounds remaining.
It’s worth noting that the Spanish midfielder has made twenty appearances for the Citizens across all competitions this season, scoring once—in the FA Cup match against Exeter.
Reminder: Manchester City forward Erling Haaland is not fully fit for the next match.
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
