“Shush, I Didn’t Finish!” – Pep Guardiola Delivers Scathing Verdict on Refereeing in Manchester City Matches
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued one of his strongest public criticisms yet of refereeing and VAR standards following another night of controversy involving his side.
The comments arrived after City’s crucial 2-0 victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, a result that gives the reigning champions firm control ahead of the return fixture at the Etihad Stadium next month.
While much of the post-match discussion centred on City’s efficiency and attacking quality, Guardiola instead chose to focus on what he believes is a recurring pattern of questionable officiating decisions in matches involving his team.
City opened the scoring through Antoine Semenyo before Rayan Cherki added a late second goal to seal an impressive away win. However, the match was finely balanced early on, with Newcastle striking the woodwork twice at 0-0 and James Trafford producing a vital save to deny Yoane Wissa.
Guardiola’s frustration did not stem from this match alone, but rather from incidents in previous meetings at St James’ Park, particularly during a Premier League encounter earlier in the season.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the final whistle, the City boss was visibly animated as he questioned the effectiveness of VAR and the decision-making process involving match officials.
“Four officials and VAR aren’t able to take a decision, and they have to go to the referee. I don’t understand why in the 60th minute in the Premier League game here, with Fabian Schär and the penalty on Phil Foden, VAR didn’t say anything,” Guardiola said.
The Catalan then became increasingly animated when referencing another incident. “I don’t understand in the 20th minute in the Premier League game here, the penalty for Jérémy Doku with Malick Thiaw – take a look, take a look. Go to Sky and ask the analysts… Shush, I didn’t finish.”
Guardiola also questioned the precision of offside decisions, referencing Newcastle’s second goal in November. “The line was really, really perfect – millimetres. I don’t understand. But I’m pretty sure the official is going to call me tomorrow to explain why VAR didn’t intervene in these two clear penalties at 0-0 here.”
Despite his frustration, Guardiola stressed that his anger was not reactionary. “Look at my press conference in November – I didn’t say anything. Today, VAR intervened. I was waiting in that moment. Two unbelievable penalties, and it didn’t happen. But it’s OK. We know how it works, and that will make us stronger.”
When asked again about officiating consistency, Guardiola offered a telling reflection shaped by longevity rather than emotion. “In 10 years here, I know what happened… But it’s OK, we won a lot!”
The manager’s remarks align with similar sentiments expressed by players, including Antoine Semenyo, who recently voiced frustration after having a goal disallowed. Together, the comments paint a picture of a club increasingly concerned with VAR consistency rather than isolated incidents.
As City continue to compete across multiple competitions, the focus will remain on converting strong performances into silverware. However, Guardiola’s latest outburst ensures that refereeing standards and VAR application will remain firmly in the spotlight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What prompted Pep Guardiola’s comments?
Guardiola was reacting to a series of controversial refereeing and VAR decisions, particularly from previous matches at St James’ Park.
Which match was Guardiola referring to?
He referenced both the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg and a prior Premier League match against Newcastle.
What incidents angered Guardiola the most?
Two penalty appeals involving Phil Foden and Jérémy Doku, and the precision of offside decisions.
Did Guardiola criticise VAR directly?
Yes, he questioned why VAR failed to intervene in what he described as “unbelievable penalties.”
What is City’s focus moving forward?
City will aim to eliminate controversy by asserting control in the second leg at the Etihad Stadium.
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola’s “Shush, I didn’t finish” moment encapsulates mounting frustration within the Manchester City camp over refereeing standards. While City remain firmly on course for another major final, the manager’s words underline a long-standing belief that success must be achieved not only against elite opponents, but also amid inconsistent decision-making. For Guardiola, experience has not dulled the frustration — it has simply sharpened his resolve.
