Rodri has insisted Manchester City are innocent of the 115 financial rule breaches charged by the Premier League. The former midfielder, who left for Barcelona last year, said he trusts the club's position until any official verdict proves otherwise.
"They always express the confidence that they never did something wrong and we believe in that," Rodri said. He added that the squad remained calm throughout the process, taking confidence from the club's stance. The charges relate to a period from 2009 to 2018, before Rodri joined the club in 2019.
Historical precedent
Rodri pointed to the club's successful appeal against UEFA in 2020 as a reason for his belief. City were initially given a two-year European ban by UEFA that year, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned the decision in July 2020, clearing the club of separate financial fair play charges. "Until the moment they are proved wrong, we will believe the club," Rodri said.
Success on the pitch
During the period covered by the Premier League's case, Manchester City won eight major trophies. That haul included three league titles, three League Cups, one FA Cup and the Community Shield. Rodri was part of the team that secured four consecutive Premier League titles between 2021 and 2024 and the 2023 Champions League, completing a historic treble.
Manchester City's current form remains imperious, sitting top of the standings with a perfect record of five wins from five games, amassing 15 points. They have scored 17 goals while conceding just 3, giving them a three-point lead over Arsenal. Rodri, who was a key part of the squad during his time, contributed significantly to the team's underlying stats and control in midfield.
Manchester City are set to appeal the charges, with the legal process ongoing. The Premier League has stated the matter is confidential and declined to comment.
Further reading: BBC Sport Football
