Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images

Pep Guardiola Defends Himself After Rodri Substitution Draws Backlash

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Manuel Meza Cienfuegos | Last updated Feb 1, 2026 2:42 PM ET

Pep Guardiola defended himself and explained why he substituted Rodri in the 2-2 draw between Tottenham and Manchester City on Sunday, February 1.

The Spanish midfielder was replaced by Omar Marmoush in the 90+4 minute of the match. Guardiola was questioned on whether he did it to avoid a red card, as Hernandez had already cautioned.

"Oh yeah? No, that was not the reason," said the Manchester City boss. "What was the reason?" asked the journalist again, to which Pep said, "A decision to put another player with another energy, Phil Foden, in the final third to try with his talent to score a goal."

With Rodri no longer available, Nico Gonzalez took on the enforcer role in City's midfield. He hauled back Odobert in the 90+8 minute and accepted a late yellow card.

Tijjani Reijnders and Rodri of Manchester City after Reijnders heads wide during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on February 01, 2026, in London, England. Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images

What Happened in Tottenham 2-2 Manchester City?

Manchester City had a 2-0 lead, but Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke changed the destiny of the match with two goals, including a stunning scorpion kick goal.

Rayan Cherki opened the scoring in the 11th minute, while new signing Antoine Semenyo scored in the 44th. Solanke’s goals came in the 53rd and 70th minutes.

The most striking goal from the English striker was the second, as it was a scorpion kick. Skilfully meeting a chest-high cross from the right by Gallagher, Solanke managed to contrive a brilliant flicked finish that looped over Donnarumma and into the top-left corner.

Tottenham will have to return to a competitive rhythm quickly, as in six days, next Saturday, they visit in-form Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Just three days later, they will host Newcastle United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for matchweek 27 of the Premier League.

For their part, the Citizens host Newcastle United next Wednesday, February four, for the second leg of the Carabao Cup semifinal. Just four days later, they will visit Liverpool at Anfield for matchweek 25 of the League.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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