Rodri Backs Man City Amidst Financial Allegations

Rodri, a former Manchester City midfielder, maintains the club's innocence in their financial dealings. He stated his continued trust in them unless proven otherwise.

Manchester City faces 115 financial rule breach accusations from the Premier League and intends to appeal any findings.

Speaking before Spain's UEFA Nations League match against England, Rodri, who moved to Barcelona in August, supported City's position.

"They consistently express their belief that they've done nothing wrong, and we trust that," Rodri commented.

"Until they are proven wrong, we will believe the club. They always assure us of their confidence in their innocence."

This stance echoes City's previous success in overturning a two-year ban from European competitions, initially imposed by UEFA for financial fair play violations, through the Court of Arbitration for Sport in 2020.

Rodri pointed to the 2020 case as justification for the players' continued faith.

"We saw in 2020 that the process was similar, and ultimately, nothing happened," he explained.

"We've encountered something comparable; there was a similar legal process. The accusation differs, but the process is alike.

"There, too, we were initially found guilty, but we trusted the club and the innocence it maintained, and we were ultimately acquitted.

"So, I trust the justice system and the club's innocence."

During the period under Premier League scrutiny, City secured eight trophies, including three league titles, three League Cups, one Community Shield, and one FA Cup.

Rodri dismissed the possibility of the club being stripped of titles as a consequence.

"What we achieved, they cannot take from us," he added.

"It's something that cannot be bought with money. It's earned through effort, sacrifice, and daily commitment.

"I can assure you that everything was deserved, and I'm grateful to have experienced one of English football's greatest eras here."

Prime Minister Andy Burnham advised a thorough review of the independent commission's report before forming judgments on the charges against Manchester City.

"One would need to examine the independent commission's report, and people shouldn't rush to such conclusions," Burnham told ITV Granada.

"I understand this has been an extended process between the club and the Premier League. It appears to have been quite contentious.

"Therefore, I don't think it's straightforward to jump to conclusions. We all need to study the independent commission's report in considerable detail before drawing any definitive opinions."