Rodri banned for Spain! Man City star ruled out of Albania clash after breaking new rule during Italy clash at Euro 2024

Rodri will miss Spain’s final group stage match against Albania after picking up his his second booking in as many games at the Euros.

- WHAT HAPPENED?
  
  During Spain’s 1-0 win over Italy on Thursday night, the Manchester City star was booked by the referee after complaining to the official before half time. The 27-year-old picked up a yellow card as only the team’s captain can speak to the referee – resulting in him missing their Albania clash on Monday, as he was also booked in the 3-0 victory against Croatia. The rule has been brought in at Euro 2024 in a bid to crack down on players swarming the referee when decisions are made.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Despite that setback, Spain reached the last 16 of Euro 2024 with their win over Italy. In the process, they ensured they will finish top of their group – giving them, on paper, a more favourable draw in the knockout stages. Defensive midfielder Rodri will then be back for that crunch clash.
DID YOU KNOW?

According to Sofascore, Rodri’s 100 per cent passing success (58 out of 58) in the opposition half was the most in a Euros game since 1980. He edged out Belgium’s Dedryck Boyata against Finland in Euro 2020 and Denmark’s Andreas Christensen versus Slovenia earlier this tournament.
WHAT NEXT?

Spain, who won the Euros in 2012 and 2008, will look to make it three wins from three against Albania on Monday night. Together with tournament hosts Germany, Spain are one of just two sides to have already qualified for the knockout stages.

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