Rodri backs Manchester City’s innocence in financial case and reveals players’ message

Rodri has reaffirmed his belief that Manchester City are innocent of the alleged financial breaches against the club, saying their success was built on collective work and effort rather than money.

The Spain midfielder, who moved to Barcelona last summer, was speaking about the possible punishment facing his former club. He compared the current situation with the legal process Manchester City went through in 2020.

“We went through a similar legal process in 2020, and the only thing that has changed is the allegation,” Rodri said. “The club always told us that we would be cleared, and we were. We were found guilty in the initial ruling, as is happening now, but I hope justice will prevail.”

Rodri said he trusted the assurances given to Manchester City’s players at the time.

“I know Manchester City very well, and they reassured us then that they had taken all the correct steps,” he added.

The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner also addressed concerns over the possibility of Manchester City being stripped of titles if the club is found guilty.

“When you see all those people who worked so hard at Manchester City to achieve success, you realise that what we accomplished cannot be denied,” he said.

“It was not bought with money, but achieved through effort and team spirit. Everything we won was deserved; we created one of the greatest eras in English football. I believe in the club’s innocence. We have already proved that in 2020.”

Rodri also discussed Spain’s ambitions after their World Cup triumph. He acknowledged the considerable responsibility felt by the national team’s players following that achievement, but said they remained “hungry for more”.

The midfielder said Spain wanted to win the Nations League, as the squad looks to add another major honour.

He was also asked about his chances of claiming the Ballon d’Or. Rodri admitted that he would like to win the award, while recognising that the outcome depends on both his performances and the judgement of journalists.

Individual honours, he said, were ultimately a “reward for collective work”. He also expressed his hope that the prize would go to a Spanish player.

Rodri praised the understanding within the Spain squad, particularly with a large number of the team’s players now at Barcelona. He said the Catalan club’s style of play was closely aligned with Spain’s approach, helping the national team develop greater cohesion.

The midfielder’s comments came as Manchester City continue to face the consequences of the allegations, while he maintains that the club’s achievements should be viewed as the product of sustained collective effort.