Pep Guardiola Issues Warning to Referees After Arsenal’s Controversial Goal in 2-2 Draw: ‘Next Time, We Won’t Move
Pep Guardiola expressed frustration with refereeing decisions after Manchester City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal, particularly surrounding the circumstances of Arsenal’s controversial equalizer.
During a break in play, referee Michael Oliver called City captain Kyle Walker over for a discussion, which led to Walker leaving his position.
Arsenal quickly resumed play, and the ball was passed over Walker’s head, allowing Gabriel Martinelli to assist Riccardo Calafiori for a stunning equalizer.
Guardiola was visibly upset, kicking a chair in frustration, and goalkeeper Ederson received a booking for protesting. Later, Guardiola was also displeased when Ederson appeared to be blocked off, leading to Gabriel Magalhães’ goal from a corner.
While Guardiola acknowledged that City could have defended better, he emphasized his frustration with the refereeing, particularly Walker being drawn out of position.
He hinted at a new approach for future games, saying, “Next time, I will tell my players when the referee says come and talk to me, we will not go. I will say you come to me,” suggesting that his players should no longer leave their positions during such moments. Despite this, Guardiola ultimately placed responsibility on his team for not organizing better.
Pep Guardiola Issues Warning to Referees After Arsenal’s Controversial Goal in 2-2 Draw: ‘Next Time, We Won’t Move