Rodri’s Harsh Criticism of Phil Foden Ignites Manchester City Drama After Al-Hilal Defeat

The fallout from Manchester City’s shocking 4-3 defeat to Al-Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 on June 30, 2025, has taken a dramatic turn. In a stunning outburst, star midfielder Rodri publicly criticized teammate Phil Foden, accusing the young Englishman of selfish play during the match. Rodri’s biting remark, “He scored, but it was purely out of selfishness,” has sparked a firestorm within the Etihad dressing room, prompting Foden to respond with a statement that has left fans and pundits in awe. As tensions rise, this feud threatens to deepen the crisis at Manchester City following their humiliating loss.

Rodri’s Scathing Critique

Rodri, Manchester City’s midfield linchpin and a Spanish international, did not hold back in his post-match comments. Speaking to reporters after the Al-Hilal defeat, he pointed to Foden’s performance, particularly his 68th-minute goal, as emblematic of a broader issue. “Phil’s a great player, but in key moments, he chooses himself over the team,” Rodri stated. “He scored, but it was purely out of selfishness, ignoring open teammates. That’s not how we win big games.” The comment referenced a moment where Foden opted to shoot from a tight angle rather than pass to an unmarked Erling Haaland, a decision that failed to shift the game’s momentum as Al-Hilal surged to a 4-3 victory with Marcos Leonardo’s 112th-minute winner.

Rodri’s frustration comes amid a turbulent period for City, who were fined a record £2 million by chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak for their lackluster performance, as reported earlier today. The Spaniard’s remarks, unusual for a player known for his professionalism, suggest deeper tensions within the squad. Social media exploded with reactions, with one X user posting, “Rodri calling out Foden like that? This is getting messy!” Another wrote, “He’s not wrong—Foden’s been off the pace lately.”

Foden’s Stunning Response

Phil Foden, the 25-year-old English star who has been hailed as one of City’s brightest talents, broke his silence with a response that showcased his maturity and resolve. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Foden wrote, “I play with passion and instinct, but I’m always learning. Rodri’s words hurt, but they push me to be better for this team. We’re a family, and families grow stronger through honesty. Let’s rise together.” His eloquent and unifying message drew widespread praise, with fans and analysts lauding his ability to handle criticism with grace. “Foden’s response is pure class,” one fan commented on X. “He’s turned this into a moment of growth.”

Foden’s goal against Al-Hilal, a curling strike from the edge of the box, was one of the few bright spots in City’s performance, which saw them outplayed with only 45% possession and 12 shots compared to Al-Hilal’s 18. However, his decision-making in key moments drew scrutiny, aligning with Rodri’s critique. Despite this, Foden’s response has shifted the narrative, positioning him as a leader ready to bridge the gap within the squad.

A Team in Crisis

The Rodri-Foden feud comes at a precarious time for Manchester City. The Al-Hilal defeat, coupled with the doping scandal involving Al-Hilal’s Marcos Leonardo and the club’s historic fine, has plunged the team into chaos. Pep Guardiola, addressing the controversy, urged unity: “Rodri and Phil are professionals. They’ll sort it out. We need to focus on the next game.” However, sources suggest the dressing room is divided, with some players siding with Rodri’s call for accountability and others backing Foden’s creative flair.

The loss to Al-Hilal, powered by stars like João Cancelo and Yassine Bounou, has amplified scrutiny on City’s ability to compete against emerging global forces like the Saudi Pro League. Rodri’s comments reflect broader frustrations, as City’s usually dominant midfield was overrun by Al-Hilal’s Rúben Neves and Sergej Milinković-Savić. The team now faces a critical Premier League match against Liverpool on July 5, 2025, with their one-point lead over Arsenal hanging in the balance.

The Road Ahead

Foden’s response has calmed some tensions, but the incident underscores deeper issues at Manchester City. Rodri’s leadership and Foden’s potential are vital to the team’s success, and their ability to reconcile will determine how quickly City can recover. Fans are hopeful that this public spat will galvanize the squad, with one supporter posting, “Rodri’s honesty and Foden’s class could be the spark City needs.” Others, however, fear the feud could linger, especially with the doping controversy casting a shadow over Al-Hilal’s victory.

As Manchester City navigates this turbulent period, the football world watches closely. Will Rodri and Foden’s clash strengthen their resolve, or will it deepen the cracks at the Etihad? With the Premier League and Champions League campaigns looming, City’s response to this crisis will define their season.