AliousThe controversy surrounding Rodri became a major talking point in Premier League title race after Manchester City were held to a 2-2 draw by Tottenham Hotspur on February 1, 2026.
City had raced into a two-goal lead through Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo, but Spurs responded when Dominic Solanke pulled one back after appearing to catch the back of Marc Guehi’s leg while forcing the ball into the net.
After the match, Rodri voiced his frustration, saying: “I know we’ve won a lot and people don’t want us to keep winning, but referees must remain neutral.” He added that although he respects officials, repeated VAR mistakes against City made it difficult to stay quiet, claiming it was the “third or fourth match in a row” where they had been on the wrong end of decisions.
FA Punishes Rodri for Comments
Following the incident, the The Football Association confirmed that its Regulatory Commission had fined Rodri £80,000 and issued a formal warning about his future conduct. The Spanish midfielder admitted the charge during the disciplinary process.
Despite a VAR review and the on-field decision by referee Robert Jones, Solanke’s first goal was allowed to stand. Tottenham later completed their comeback when Solanke produced a spectacular scorpion-kick finish in the 70th minute.
Speaking after the game, Rodri described the decision to award the first goal as “unacceptable” and “very clear,” hinting that City had been on the receiving end of several questionable calls in recent matches.
The FA charged the midfielder under Rule E3.1, accusing him of acting improperly in a post-match interview by making comments that suggested bias and questioned the integrity of match officials.
Rodri Cleared to Play Key Fixtures
While the fine stands, Rodri avoided a suspension, which is a major relief for Manchester City as they enter a crucial stretch of the 2025/26 campaign.
Pep Guardiola’s side are preparing for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League round-of-16 tie against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Wednesday, March 11.
Rodri’s availability is expected to play a key role in City’s hopes of progressing in multiple competitions, with the Spanish international continuing to be central to Guardiola’s tactical setup.
City will then return to league action with an away fixture against West Ham United on Saturday. Guardiola, however, will miss the match from the touchline due to a two-game technical area ban after accumulating yellow cards.
The return leg against Real Madrid will take place at the Etihad Stadium on March 17, where Manchester City will aim to secure a place in the quarter-finals of Europe’s top club competition.
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