Pep Guardiola apologises to referee Farai Hallam after a controversial decision but insists he had to defend his club and players
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has offered a Guardiola referee apology after a brisk exchange with official Farai Hallam during his team’s Premier League win over Wolves, but he maintained that his reaction came from defending his club and players.
Guardiola’s comments followed a controversial decision in the first half when Hallam, officiating his first Premier League match, declined to award City a penalty for a handball after consulting the pitchside monitor. Hallam stuck with his original call, saying the arm position was natural, prompting strong reactions from the City dugout.
Before a Champions League match press conference, Guardiola appeared to soften his tone. “If he felt offended, I am sorry,” Guardiola said, acknowledging that Hallam might have felt his earlier remarks were harsh. He added that refereeing at the top level is difficult and that officials often defend each other in public comments.
Despite the apology, Guardiola reiterated that he felt compelled to speak out because he believes refereeing decisions have repeatedly gone against his team in recent games. “I defend my club and players,” he said, stressing that his intention was not disrespect but to highlight what he saw as inconsistent calls.
Guardiola’s reaction came after Hallam upheld his on‑field decision not to award a penalty, even after a VAR review. The City boss sarcastically noted that Hallam’s choice would make his name known, referring to a long, competitive season that includes tight races for league and European qualification.
Some pundits and former referees have defended Hallam’s decision, saying that handball rules can be subjective and that upholding his original judgment showed confidence and consistency. Others say managers should temper their public criticisms to maintain good relations with officials.
In his comments, Guardiola also reflected on his long rapport with referees. He said he rarely criticizes officials after defeats, noting that in his decade of managing at the top level, he has mostly shown respect for officials even when decisions went against City. However, he added, this season’s controversial calls prompted him to speak up more often.
City’s 2‑0 win over Wolves lifted spirits, but Guardiola acknowledged that intense scrutiny — from officials to players — is part of the modern game. He reiterated that he respects referees while defending his right to voice concerns when he feels it is justified.
This incident has generated debate about how managers interact with officials in the Premier League, especially when decisions involve VAR reviews and first‑time referees. Many observers stress the importance of respect on both sides while accepting that emotions run high during tightly contested matches.
