Manchester City midfielder Rodri has been formally charged by the Football Association (FA) over comments he made following his team’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.
The FA confirmed the charge on Tuesday, stating that the player acted improperly during a post-match interview. According to the governing body, his words implied bias and questioned the integrity of the match officials.
The incident in question occurred two weeks ago during the heated draw. Rodri was unhappy after Dominic Solanke’s first goal for Tottenham was allowed to stand. The Spaniard suggested that outside perceptions of Manchester City were influencing decisions on the pitch.
“I know we won too much and the people don’t want us to win but the referee has to be neutral and for me, honestly, it’s not fair,” Rodri said.
The controversial goal saw Solanke appear to make contact with the back of Marc Guehi’s leg before scoring. Despite a review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), the decision to award the goal was upheld.
A statement from the Premier League Match Centre at the time explained the decision. It said the referee’s call was checked and confirmed, as the officials deemed that Solanke played the ball and therefore no foul was committed.
The FA has confirmed that Rodri has until Wednesday to respond to the charge. He could face a fine or a suspension depending on the outcome of the case.
