Rodri backs Manchester City's denial of financial charges
Former Manchester City midfielder Rodri says he trusts the club's insistence that it did not break financial rules. City were found guilty of most of the 115 Premier League charges and plan to appeal. Rodri, now at Barcelona, pointed to the club's successful 2020 CAS case as reason for confidence.
Rodri, now at Barcelona after leaving Manchester City in August, made 298 appearances for the club between 2018 and 2026. He spoke before Spain's Nations League match against England at Wembley, saying he trusts City's insistence that no wrongdoing occurred. City were found guilty of most of the 115 Premier League charges and plan to appeal.
Rodri pointed to City's 2020 Court of Arbitration for Sport case, where Uefa's two-year European ban was overturned, as a similar process that ended in acquittal. During the period covered by the Premier League case, City won eight trophies, including three league titles and three League Cups. He dismissed talk of stripped titles, saying those achievements were earned through effort.
The outcome and appeal could affect Manchester City supporters, rival clubs, players and sponsors, shaping how fans view the fairness and credibility of football's financial rules. Rodri's public backing may reassure some City followers but may deepen scepticism among rival supporters. If sanctions or title changes follow, they could influence club finances, league competitiveness and local communities tied to the club. The case may also prompt wider debate about governance and transparency in elite football, though its practical impact remains uncertain until the appeal concludes.