Rodri Critiques VAR Decisions After Tottenham Draw

Rodri, the midfielder for Manchester City, has voiced his concerns regarding the need for referees to maintain neutrality, particularly criticizing the decision that allowed Tottenham’s first goal during their recent 2-2 draw.

City initially seemed poised to reduce Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League to four points after establishing a two-goal advantage in the first half, courtesy of goals from Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo. However, Tottenham mounted a spirited comeback, with Dominic Solanke scoring twice, including an impressive backheel in the 70th minute. Nonetheless, it was Solanke’s first goal, scored just eight minutes into the second half, that incited anger from Rodri and manager Pep Guardiola.

In the build-up to the goal, it appeared that Solanke had kicked through the back of Marc Guehi’s leg. Despite a VAR review of the incident, no foul was called, which left City players and supporters frustrated. Rodri reflected on previous VAR decisions that had gone against City in matches against Newcastle, Manchester United, and Wolves in January, questioning the fairness of officiating.

Speaking to Australian broadcaster Stan Sport, Rodri remarked, “I know we have won too much and some people might not want us to win, but the referee must be neutral. Honestly, it feels unfair. We work incredibly hard in these situations, and to have such decisions made against us is disheartening.”

He continued, stating, “It’s frustrating because the foul is evident; he kicked the leg, and as a result, the ball ended up in the net. We must pay attention to these small details, as they can significantly impact the outcome of matches in this league. Today feels particularly tough for us in that regard.”

Rodri’s frustrations were amplified by recent instances where VAR decisions have negatively affected City, including a disallowed goal in their 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Newcastle and a missed red card for Diogo Dalot during the Manchester derby.

“I find it challenging to process these decisions. Watching the footage, it’s clear there was a foul in the first action leading to Tottenham’s goal. VAR exists for a reason, and small details can change the course of a game. Perhaps if they hadn’t scored that goal, we would have won,” he expressed.

A statement from the Premier League Match Centre clarified that the referee’s decision was reviewed and upheld by VAR, as Solanke’s challenge on Guehi was deemed legal since he played the ball. Guardiola echoed Rodri’s discontent, stating, “Of course, it has happened again. What can I say? Marc has the ball and is kicked from behind; it’s a goal. What can I say? Nothing. Just one more time.”