Rodri backs Manchester City to clear financial allegations

Spain midfielder Rodri says he believes Manchester City will be found not guilty of the allegations against the club after the English Football Association ruled against them in 114 of 115 cases.

Rodri was speaking at a news conference before Spain’s Nations League opener against England on Saturday. He said City’s management was handling the situation as well as possible and referred to a similar process in 2020.

“We went through a very similar process in 2020. At that time, they gave us the feeling that we would come out of it without a punishment, and the club was indeed cleared,” Rodri said.

“I hope justice is done. I trust Manchester City’s innocence and I know how they work.”

The English Football Association announced on Friday that Manchester City had been found guilty in 114 of the 115 cases brought against them.

The Premier League had previously accused the club of breaching financial fair play rules over more than one season. Its statement listed alleged breaches dating back to the 2009-10 campaign.

Rodri also discussed the different coaching approaches of Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and Spain boss Luis de la Fuente, as well as the large number of Barcelona players in the national squad.

“The coaches have different details, but the role is the same. There are differences in footballing concepts and in the way they defend,” he said.

“Generally, what they ask of you is similar, although there are some different details.”

He added: “In football, relationships and understanding between players are very important. Having a large number of players from one club helps. It is positive to have so many players from a club that plays in a positive way with the national team.”

Spain are in League A, Group C of the Nations League alongside Croatia, England and the Czech Republic.

Rodri said winning the 2026 World Cup and receiving individual recognition had given him renewed motivation. Spain won the tournament, held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, by beating Argentina 1-0 in the final, with Paris Saint-Germain striker Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal.

It was Spain’s second World Cup triumph, following their first success in 2010 in South Africa, when they beat the Netherlands 1-0.

“I felt very happy and hugely excited after winning the World Cup, and also after receiving the individual recognition,” Rodri said.

“It is a new stage full of excitement. I am grateful for the interest Barcelona showed in signing me, and I am happy at the club.”

Looking ahead to Spain’s campaign after their World Cup success, Rodri said the squad remained determined to achieve more.

“Clearly, you feel the responsibility that comes with the path we have travelled. This team wants to achieve more, and we know the level of respect represented by wearing two stars on the shirt,” he said.

“We are not satisfied with what we have achieved. The Nations League motivates us, and we will face a great team.”