Rodri risks handing Arsenal title advantage as clash with FA looms

Manchester City midfielder Rodri could offer Arsenal the push they need to beat the Cityzens to the Premier League title

Rodri could be facing a costly suspension after being charged with misconduct by the Football Association, potentially handing title rivals Arsenal a crucial advantage in the Premier League race.

The Manchester City midfielder is under investigation for comments made following his side’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur earlier this month.

Rodri faces FA charge after referee comments

Rodri voiced frustration over the standard of officiating after the match, particularly regarding Tottenham’s opening goal.

He claimed it was “not possible” that referee Robert Jones and VAR allowed the goal to stand after Dominic Solanke appeared to make contact with Marc Guehi in the build-up.

“He’s kicked the leg, it’s so clear,” Rodri said. “I know we won too much and the people don’t want us to win but the referee has to be neutral. For me it’s not fair.”

The FA has charged the Spain international with allegedly “acting in an improper manner” by implying bias and questioning the integrity of a match official. He has until February 18 to respond.

Title race implications for Man City

Any ban could prove pivotal in the title run-in, with Arsenal closely contesting top spot. Rodri remains a central figure in Pep Guardiola’s system, and his absence would be a significant blow.

Guardiola himself also criticised the decision, suggesting a foul would have been awarded had the roles been reversed.

There is precedent for punishment in similar cases. Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp received a two-match ban and £75,000 fine for comments about referee Paul Tierney, deemed a serious breach.

How Rodri’s remarks are judged remains to be seen, but the outcome could have major consequences in the Premier League title battle.