Pep Guardiola doubled down on his criticism of refereeing standards, insisting that he must defend Manchester City in the wake of a string of calls to go against his team.
The City boss was incensed by Farai Hallam’s decision to turn down appeals for a penalty during Saturday’s 2-0 win over Wolves – and claimed the debutant wanted to make the occasion about him.
Guardiola apologised for those comments made about the 32-year-old but remains angered at a number of other incidents not to have gone their way – including a disallowed goal at Newcastle and Diogo Dalot escaping a red card for a foul on Jeremy Doku in the Manchester derby.
He has now referenced PGMO chief Howard Webb three times in a fortnight amid heightened tensions between Guardiola and the refereeing fraternity.
‘I was incredibly respectful in my nine or 10 years with the referees, in defeats and everything, never commenting on absolutely anything,’ Guardiola said.
‘How many times did I criticise the referees last season, which was the worst season in 10 years? How many times?
‘Just take a look when we have had defeats over the last 10 years. The FA Cup final, the position of the referee and the goalkeeper for Crystal Palace.
‘It was a natural position with the hands? Look at my comments after the game.
‘I defend my club and players for what happened many, many (times). When you are six minutes for a disallowed goal in the Carabao Cup, I have to tell him you know.
‘The hands against Wolves, it happened, but then what happened at Crystal Palace and Chelsea? I have to tell.’
Guardiola added on Hallam: ‘If he is offended then I am so sorry. I know it’s not easy on debut. And it’s happened. Everyone is so sensitive, I know that.’
