Rodri of Manchester City faces FA charge after comments on referee impartiality

The English Football Association has charged Manchester City midfielder Rodri following his remarks that referees must remain impartial after a heated match against Tottenham.

Rodri expressed strong frustration over referee Robert Jones permitting Dominic Solankes goal during Manchester Citys 2-2 Premier League draw away at Tottenham on February 1.

He believed the goal ought to have been disallowed as the Tottenham forward struck the back of Manchester City defender Marc Guehis leg while scoring.

I know we won too much and the people dont want us to win, but the referee has to be neutral, Rodri stated to an Australian broadcaster following Tottenhams comeback from a two-goal deficit.

Its not fair because we work so hard. When everything is finished, you are frustrated.

On Friday, the FA revealed that the 29 year old faces a misconduct charge related to his statements.

Its alleged that the midfielder acted in an improper manner during a post-match media interview by making comments that imply bias and/or question the integrity of a match official and/or match officials, contrary to FA Rule 3.1, read the FA statement.

Rodri must reply to the charge by February 18, facing possible suspension if deemed guilty.

Such an outcome would severely impact Manchester Citys bid to close the four-point lead held by Premier League frontrunners Arsenal.

In 2023, Liverpools then manager Jurgen Klopp received a touchline ban after implying that referee Paul Tierney harboured animosity towards his team.