Pep Guardiola, Man City
Credit: Imago / DAZN
Keith Hackett
Tue 1 July 2025 18:00, UK
Pep Guardiola is at risk of retrospective action following his on-pitch outburst during Man City’s shock defeat to Al-Hilal, according to Keith Hackett.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that UEFA will wait for a report from referee Jesus Valenzuela Saez before taking action with the next steps.
Following extra time, the Citizens were knocked out of the Club World Cup in America, losing 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller with the Saudi Pro League side, surprising almost every football fan.
During such a surprising game, there were several moments of controversy, one of which came from Bernardo Silva’s opening goal, with Rayan Ait-Nouri adjudged to have handballed in the build-up.
A quick VAR check took place against the Algerian international, though it was eventually awarded in City’s favour as the game got off to a very quick start in the round of 16.
Pep Guardiola kicks off during Man City v Al-Hilal
With six more goals from Marcos Leonardo, who bagged a brace, Malcom, Erling Haaland, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Phil Foden, the teams needed extra time to separate them.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
However, before the goals came in extra time, Guardiola was furious with one of the referee’s contentious decisions in the dying seconds of the first 90 minutes.
Jeremy Doku was fouled in a decent free-kick position, being taken out “recklessly” by Kaio, but instead of awarding the foul, the full-time whistle was blown, sparking fury amongst the City squad.
Chelsea’s Levi Colwill is facing a similar situation during his actions against Benfica as Malo Gusto was punished controversially for a handball decision following a two-hour weather delay.
Guardiola launched into an X-rated rant in the centre circle before another 30 minutes of extra time, and Hackett believes this incident could see the Catalan punished.
Pep Guardiola to receive touchline ban at Man City
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: “The manager, Pep Guardiola, was clearly frustrated with the course of action taken by the referee and unhappy with the result of his team.
“[FIFA] will await a report from the referee to determine if action will be taken. He is at risk of a fine and a touchline ban.”
Pep Guardiola Man City
Pep Guardiola could face retrospective action from UEFA. (Credit Imago)
Liverpool’s Arne Slot faced a two-game ban and a £70,000 ban following his outburst at referee Michael Oliver during the Merseyside derby, and some fans may be expecting similar treatment.
Related Posts