Manchester City's manager makes statement about Spanish referees following European tie
City's head coach mentioned he has "no words" to officials from his homeland after his team dropped two points against Monaco because of a injury-time spot-kick converted by the English defender.
Jesús Gil Manzano was advised to examine the play by the video official before awarding the penalty when he determined that the Monaco player's raised foot on the player merited a foul call.
The Norwegian striker nets a brace but Manchester City held by their opponents
City's star striker found the net on two occasions for the visitors, but the advantage was matched first by Jordan Teze and then by the penalty-taker's late foul shot.
In spite of a superior showing from Guardiola's side, they ultimately came up short in the closing stages of the match.
Guardiola avoids comment on spot-kick ruling
City's boss refused to discuss the particular penalty decision after the match, instead mentioning officials from his Spain in vague terms.
He has previously had a difficult relationship with his compatriot the referee, who earlier pointed to three fouls against his side in as many Champions League matches.
Guardiola states on team performance
The team performed a strong performance,” he stated. “In the sport you have to win with the result. When examining the match there were many aspects that were positive. Step by step we will progress but we had many chances and the midfielder in the first half and multiple team members excelled.”
Guardiola continued: “The opposition held so deep and compact, that is so different to the way Monaco operate in the French league, but we did a good job. In tight games, you have to be solid and we accept the draw.”
Haaland on team display and refereeing decision
The Norwegian netted a brace, but it was merely enough for a tie, as he increased his European tally to a impressive 52 goals in 50 appearances.
“We must do better,” he commented of the overall display. “It's essential to secure a win the upcoming fixture. That's all we can do.”
He added: “We require more energy. We needed to press them more like in the initial 45 minutes, they took the lead in the later stage and I don’t think we performed well.”
About the late decision, Haaland noted: “I didn’t see it – but when you strike a player in the face, it’s probably a spot-kick.”