Rodri charged by FA over referee comments after Spurs draw

Rodri has been charged with misconduct by the The Football Association following remarks he made about match officials after Manchester City’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur earlier this month, Sport360NG reports.

The City midfielder voiced his frustration after Spurs striker Dominic Solanke saw his goal allowed to stand despite appeals that he had caught defender Marc Guehi in the build-up.

While the FA has not detailed the precise comments underpinning the charge, Rodri questioned the neutrality of referee Robert Jones in his post-match assessment.

“I know we have won a lot and people don’t want us to win, but the referee has to be neutral,” the Spain international said after the game. “It’s difficult because we work so hard and at the end you feel frustrated.”

In a statement, the FA alleged that Rodri acted in an “improper manner” by making remarks which “imply bias and/or question the integrity of a match official”. The 29-year-old has until 18 February to submit his response.

Rodri also suggested that City have been on the receiving end of questionable decisions on multiple occasions this season. The reigning champions currently sit second in the Premier League, four points adrift of leaders Arsenal.

“It’s one game, then another game, then another game, it can’t keep happening,” he added. “I rarely speak about referees because I respect their job. But these situations need attention. It was clear contact, and it’s been two or three matches in a row.”