Asked if he took his comments from the weekend too far, Guardiola replied: "With their statements, they defend each other, [that is] completely understandable. "But at the same time, I have to defend my club. How many times did I criticise the referees last season, which was the worst season in 10 years? Following the match, Guardiola said he would be awaiting a call from referees' chief Howard Webb to "explain why it is not a penalty". I know it is not easy, but I have to defend my club and my players for many reasons."

Source: BBC January 27, 2026 14:48 UTC