Guardiola Questions Red Card Decision Against Lewis

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has questioned the decision to send off Rico Lewis during their 2-0 victory over Wydad Casablanca in the Club World Cup opener.

Lewis was dismissed late in the game after sliding into a challenge with Samuel Obeng. Although he won the ball, his follow-through caught the opponent’s face, leading referee Ramon Abatti to issue a straight red card following VAR consultation.

Guardiola defended his young defender, stating: “The referee thought the leg was too high, but Rico was on the grass and clearly played the ball. The way physics works, at that speed, your leg naturally lifts after contact. There was absolutely no intent to injure.”

He added: “Rico is not a player who plays dangerously. In my opinion, it was an unnecessary red card, but we respect the referee’s decision.”