Man City boss Pep Guardiola continues criticism of ‘sensitive’ referees

Pep Guardiola has doubled down on his criticism of referee Farai Hallam following Manchester City’s clash with Wolves last weekend.

Guardiola accused Hallam, who was taking charge of his first Premier League game, of attempting to make the story about himself after sticking by a decision not to award City a penalty.

Hallam had been advised to review an appeal for handball against Wolves’ Yerson Mosquera on the pitchside monitor, but did not change his original verdict.

City manager Guardiola later demanded an explanation and broadened his complaints to reference other decisions he feels have gone against his club.

While opinions on the actual penalty decision have varied, Guardiola’s comments about Hallam have been widely condemned.

Guardiola, however, has not backtracked – although he did offer a qualified apology for any offence.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League encounter with Galatasaray, Guardiola said: “They defend each other with their statements, always, completely understandably – they have to do that. (Referees chief) Howard Webb defends the referees.

“But, at the same time, I have to defend my club. How many times last season did I criticise referees – our worst season in 10 years? How many times? It never happened.

“Against (Manchester) United, after the game, what were my comments about the referees?

“I was incredibly respectful, in 9-10 years, with the referees. Never ever – with defeats – I never comment on absolutely anything.

“When I do it, it’s because I believe it’s fair enough to tell.”

Asked specifically about Hallam, Guardiola said: “I’m so sorry. If he felt offended I’m so sorry.

“I know it’s not easy on debut and it happened. I know they are sensitive, everyone. I know that.”

City’s