Manchester City star Rodri, has reportedly unsettled his neighbours with his use of a drone, leading to complaints to both building management and the police.
Residents of an adjacent apartment tower claim the footballer has been piloting the drone perilously close to their windows, sparking concerns over privacy and safety. For those living on the upper floors, a space typically offering sanctuary from the city’s prying eyes, the sight of a hovering drone has become a disturbing intrusion.
“It was a Friday night, we were just relaxing and watching TV, and suddenly there’s this green flashing light right outside our window,” recounted one resident, who lives with his partner on the 34th floor.
“You pay a premium to live up high so you aren’t overlooked. Now, we feel like we’re being watched in our own home. My wife finds it incredibly unsettling.”
The complaints allege that Rodri’s drone has been flown within metres of their windows on multiple occasions.
Frustrated tenants have formally raised the issue with their building’s concierge, who has been asked to liaise with the management of Rodri’s block.
Some have escalated the matter, contacting Greater Manchester Police to investigate whether the flights are breaching stringent UK drone regulations.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) mandates that drone operators must pass a theory test and register their device.
Crucially, they are also legally required to respect the privacy of individuals and must not cause a nuisance.
Greater Manchester Police have confirmed they are looking into the matter. “We have received a complaint and officers are making enquiries,” a force spokesperson said.
The incident casts a spotlight on the responsibilities that come with modern technology, even for elite athletes.
For Rodri, who joined City for £63 million in 2019 and was crowned the world’s best player last year, his downtime hobby has inadvertently created friction with the very community living in his shadow.
Police are expected to speak with the 29-year-old to ensure he is fully aware of the legal boundaries of flying a drone in a densely populated urban area.
