Leeds United are preparing for a huge clash with Manchester City when they return to Elland Road, and Pep Guardiola could be forced to make do without key midfielder Rodri.
Before that showdown, Leeds face consecutive trips to Birmingham. They take on Birmingham City in the FA Cup and then travel to face Aston Villa in the Premier League next weekend. While the cup tie is next on the schedule, the main objective remains securing Premier League survival.
Rodri charged by FA over referee comments
Attention will soon turn to the visit of Manchester City at the end of February. Leeds have generally struggled against the reigning champions, although Daniel Farke’s half time tactical tweak in the reverse fixture is widely viewed as a turning point in the Whites’ campaign.
City may be missing one of their most influential figures for the return meeting in West Yorkshire. The Football Association has confirmed that Rodri has been charged following remarks that suggested potential bias in officiating, which fall under FA Rule 3.1.
The Spain international made the comments after City’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham earlier this month, stating that referees must remain neutral and hinting that his side’s success may influence perceptions. Cases of players receiving bans for similar remarks are rare, but there is precedent. In May 2020, Jurgen Klopp was handed a two match touchline suspension for comparable comments while at Liverpool.
Should the FA decide to impose a significant sanction, Rodri could face a suspension covering City’s fixtures against Newcastle on February 21 and Leeds United on February 28. His appeal period is set to conclude on February 18, after which any ban would take effect.
Rodri has previously featured three times at Elland Road. He played in the memorable 1-1 draw under Marcelo Bielsa and found the net in both the 4-0 defeat in April 2022 and the 3-1 loss in December 2022.
Potential boost for Leeds
Accusing officials of bias is a serious matter, and Rodri’s comments have placed him under scrutiny. Whether the FA opts for a suspension remains to be seen, but the precedent involving Klopp suggests it is a real possibility.
If Rodri were unavailable, it would represent a significant advantage for Leeds. Facing Manchester City without their midfield anchor, especially at Elland Road under the floodlights, could tilt the balance.
With confidence building and momentum growing, Leeds would sense an opportunity to make the most of any absence in Guardiola’s ranks.