Rodri defends Manchester City’s innocence after Premier League finds club guilty of 114 of 115 financial charges

Manchester City have been found guilty of 114 out of 115 financial breaches brought by the Premier League, exposing the club to a range of possible sanctions that could include hefty fines, points deductions or even relegation. The verdict, delivered on Friday, marks the latest development in a saga that began with the club’s initial charge in 2023, and City have confirmed they will appeal the decision.

Former City midfielder Rodri, now a Barcelona player, took the opportunity to defend the club’s reputation during a pre‑match press conference in Spain ahead of the Nations League clash with England. He said, "I believe in the justice system and I believe in the innocence of the club," insisting that his confidence was not simply echoing the club’s narrative.

When pressed on whether his view was influenced by the club’s statements, Rodri replied, "No, they always tell us the confidence they have on the innocence. When you look into someone's eyes and talking that way…" He recalled a similar situation in 2020, adding that "the process was the same, and in the end, nothing happened," suggesting that City have weathered comparable scrutiny before.

Rodri stressed the calm attitude within the squad, noting, "We were very calm in this way. You never saw the team nervous about these kinds of things." He acknowledged that such investigations are now a part of modern football, but argued that all clubs must "follow the rules" and that City have consistently acted within them.

114 charges spark Barcelona chase for Haaland as City face turmoil

The Spanish media officer abruptly ended the press conference after further questioning about the verdict, signalling the sensitivity of the issue. The club’s own statement, released shortly after the ruling, reiterated its position: "The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality. Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the Club’s statement of February 2023."

City’s spokesperson added that the club has respected due process for eight years and expects the Premier League Board and Executive to act as an "independent, impartial and fair‑minded regulator, free from partisan influence." The statement underscored the club’s belief that any eventual proof of wrongdoing would be the moment they would accept responsibility.

Manchester City face severe penalties as Premier League probe deepens

The potential penalties loom large over the Premier League, where a points deduction could reshape the title race and a relegation threat would have seismic financial repercussions. Analysts note that the ruling could set a precedent for how financial fair‑play breaches are handled across Europe.

As the Nations League match approaches, Rodri’s comments add a personal dimension to the broader controversy, while Manchester City prepares its legal challenge. The club’s appeal will be closely watched by supporters and rivals alike, with the outcome likely to influence the financial governance landscape of English football.