Manchester City midfielder, Rodri, will sit out Spain’s final Euro 2024 group match against Albania.
This follows his second yellow card in as many games. Rodri was cautioned during La Roja’s 1-0 win over Italy for dissent.
The 27-year-old received the card for speaking to the referee, a privilege reserved only for the team’s captain.
This suspension stemmed from his earlier booking in the 3-0 triumph against Croatia.
EUFA has implemented this rule to deter players from surrounding the referee after decisions.
It also implemented new regulations for the upcoming European Championship, including a disciplinary measure where a player who accumulates two yellow cards will be suspended for their team’s subsequent match.
These changes are part of several adjustments introduced by the governing body in preparation for the tournament.
UEFA has made a significant adjustment to alleviate pressure on referees by restricting discussions about decisions to team captains only. This change is among several aimed at refining the tournament’s officiating process.
In the match between Spain and Italy, Rodri was cautioned just before half-time for what seemed like dissent toward referee Slavko Vincic.
This incident highlights UEFA’s strict enforcement, as any player showing dissent to officials will receive a yellow card.
Despite several Spain players surrounding the referee, only Rodri was booked, while the Italian player involved was not penalized.
Spain’s captain, Alvaro Morata, was the only player permitted to communicate with the referee. Consequently, Spain will likely miss Rodri in their upcoming match against Albania.
Nonetheless, Spain managed to take the lead against Italy, benefiting from a stroke of luck.
