Spain midfielder Rodri is missing for this evening’s Euro 2024 group stage match against Albania after falling foul of a new rule introduced for the tournament.
Rodri, 27, was booked during the 1-0 victory against Italy on Thursday and also cautioned in the 3-0 win against Croatia, his country’s Group B opener.
After Bruno Petkovic ran through on goal, Rodri was shown a yellow card for bringing him down inside the penalty area but, despite conceding a penalty, was not sent off.
According to UEFA’s rulebook this summer, a player who receives two yellow cards will miss their side’s next match – forcing Rodri to watch on from the stands tonight.
UEFA brought in several rules ahead of the tournament to crack down on dissent.
Spain midfielder Rodri is missing for tonight’s Euro 2024 group stage match against Albania
Rodri was shown yellow cards in the consecutive victories against Italy (pictured) and Croatia
Gone are the days of players surrounding referees to protest against decisions with UEFA stating that only captains will be able to engage in dialogue with the official.
As a result, any player found to have committed dissent will be booked.
During the showdown against Italy, Rodri was cautioned after appearing to remonstrate with referee Slavko Vincic following a late challenge.
Federico Chiesa’s tackle on one of Spain’s players sparked fury in their camp and after players approached the referee, Rodri was booked.
Captain Alvaro Morata was the only star permitted to speak to the whistler.
Spain have made 10 changes with head coach Luis de la Fuente using the fact his side have already qualified for the last-16 to rotate the pack.
David Raya has been given the nod ahead of Unai Simon in goal while Real Madrid striker Joselu, their hero in the Champions League, will start as the No 9.
Ferran Torres and Mikel Oryazabal have also been handed their first starts of the tournament while former Manchester City man Jesus Navas is at right back.
Defender Aymeric Laporte is the only player to keep his place in the XI.
