Rodri Blasts Referee Neutrality After Spurs Draw, Sparks FA Reaction
Sports Updated: 03 February 2026 10:57 EAT
Rodrigo of Manchester City yearns for the ball against Dominic Solanke of Tottenham Hotspur
Manchester City midfielder Rodri has launched a strong public attack on Premier League referees following his side’s 2–2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, claiming officials have failed to remain neutral and suggesting City are being treated unfairly because of their past success. City surrendered a two-goal lead in the match, with Tottenham’s comeback reigniting debate over key officiating decisions.
The flashpoint came when Dominic Solanke’s first goal was allowed to stand after a VAR review, despite City players protesting what they believed was a foul on defender Marc Guéhi in the build-up. The decision proved pivotal, as Spurs went on to secure a point that dented City’s title ambitions.
Speaking after the match, Rodri said: “I know we’ve won too much and people don’t want us to win, but the referee has to be neutral. For me, honestly, it’s not fair.” His comments immediately sparked controversy across the football world.
The Spanish international insisted the incident was clear-cut, adding: “At the end, when everything is finished, we are frustrated because it’s so clear the foul. Everyone can make a mistake, no worries about one.”
Rodri argued that the problem lies in repetition rather than a single error. “But when it’s one, two, three, four games in a row, it’s not possible,” he said, pointing to what he believes is a worrying pattern of decisions going against City.
Despite his criticism, Rodri stressed that he normally avoids speaking about referees. “I never speak about referees, I respect their job massively,” he said, explaining that his frustration boiled over due to recent events.
City manager Pep Guardiola also voiced dissatisfaction, though in a more restrained tone, questioning how the challenge in the build-up to the goal was not punished and lamenting another costly decision in a tight title race.
The draw leaves Manchester City trailing the league leaders and under increased pressure as the season enters a decisive phase, with every dropped point carrying extra weight.
Rodri’s remarks have drawn the attention of football authorities, with reports indicating that the Football Association is reviewing his comments for potential breaches of regulations regarding criticism of match officials.
As debate continues to rage among fans and pundits, Rodri’s outspoken stance has once again placed refereeing standards and VAR consistency at the centre of Premier League discussion, ensuring the controversy will not fade quickly.
Tags: English Premier League Manchester City Rodrygo Epl Sports Journalism Tottenham Tottenham Fc
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD