Manchester City midfielder Rodri has found himself at the center of controversy after being accused of trying to get an Arsenal player sent off just moments into their highly anticipated Premier League clash. The incident, which occurred within the opening seconds of the match, sparked immediate reactions from fans, pundits, and players alike, with many criticizing Rodri’s actions as unsportsmanlike. The match between Manchester City and Arsenal was already billed as a high-stakes encounter, with both clubs competing for top positions in the Premier League. However, it took just two seconds for tensions to flare, as Rodri appeared to attempt to influence the referee in a contentious exchange. Manchester City midfielder Rodri faced accusations of attempting to get Arsenal's Kai Havertz sent off just two seconds into their Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium. The highly anticipated match in Manchester had only just begun when play was briefly halted following a collision between Rodri and Havertz.

The match had barely started when Manchester City's kick-off was played back to goalkeeper Ederson. As Kai Havertz rushed forward to press the ball, he collided with Rodri, causing the city midfielder to fall to the ground. Despite the contact, referee Michael Oliver deemed the incident minor and allowed play to continue, though Rodri signaled for medical attention shortly afterward. Several Manchester City players appealed to Oliver, suggesting the incident might warrant a VAR check and possible punishment for Havertz, but the referee chose not to escalate the situation. After receiving brief treatment, Rodri resumed play, though he remained upset by the early clash, offering a sarcastic thumbs-up to Havertz before the game continued. The game continued without issuing a card. Despite the lack of punishment, Rodri’s actions ignited debate both on and off the pitch, with some accusing him of trying to deceive the officials to gain an early advantage.

Rodri’s behavior quickly became a talking point on social media, with many fans mocking the midfielder for what they perceived as an overreaction. Memes and clips of the incident began circulating online, with fans of rival teams and even some Manchester City supporters expressing frustration at what they saw as unsportsmanlike conduct. One fan on Twitter wrote, "Rodri trying to get a red card in the first two seconds of the game? Embarrassing behavior. Let’s play football, not act like it’s a theater." Pundits were also quick to weigh in on the situation, with former players criticizing Rodri for attempting to influence the game in such a manner. Former Arsenal legend Martin Keown remarked during post-match analysis, “Rodri is a fantastic player, but that was unnecessary. Footballers are role models, and these types of antics send the wrong message. It’s not the way we want to see the game played.”