Guardiola Voices Frustration with Refereeing Decisions, Acknowledges Haaland's Importance

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola didn't hold back after his team's 3-1 victory against Bournemouth on Sunday, expressing his discontent with refereeing decisions and highlighting Erling Haaland's pivotal role in the team's success. While pleased with the win that propelled City to second place in the Premier League table, Guardiola focused on what he perceived as unfair officiating during his tenure at the Etihad Stadium.

The specific incident that sparked Guardiola's ire was Bournemouth's equalizing goal, scored by Tyler Adams. Guardiola argued that Gianluigi Donnarumma, City's goalkeeper, was impeded by David Brooks just before the goal. He said Brooks pulled Donnarumma's arm down, making him unstable. Despite City's protests, referee Anthony Taylor allowed the goal to stand, even booking Donnarumma for his complaints.

Guardiola revealed that he spoke to Taylor after the game, requesting clarification on whether the incident constituted a foul. "I said to him after, when we see each other: 'Tell me if it's a foul or not because I'm waiting. If it's a foul or not, just tell me. Just take a look [at a replay].' It's fine," Guardiola stated. He further added, "They're brave here. In the Etihad they [referees] are brave, so brave". Guardiola lamented what he sees as a pattern of unfavorable calls, saying, "I'm one decade here and we know each other quite well [him and referees]". He also claimed that in the past, many prestigious managers would call the officials, but he doesn't have the time to do that.

Despite his frustration, Guardiola emphasized his satisfaction with Manchester City's achievements. "I'm so pleased at what we achieved with Man City, despite everything, so it has been so good," he said. Guardiola also took a sarcastic jab at Donnarumma's booking, saying "We conceded the yellow card, that's good," and said they have James Trafford as a deputy and it's not a problem.

Turning to his team's performance, Guardiola acknowledged the team's reliance on Erling Haaland, who scored twice in the game. When asked about the pressure on Haaland to score goals, Guardiola said that Haaland isn't tired of scoring goals. He added that they have to improve the numbers of the people up front and they know it. Guardiola compared Haaland to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, noting their consistent performance over 15 years. However, he asserted that Haaland is at that level. "Without him, it would be very hard," Guardiola admitted. He also pointed out O'Reilly scored a goal, and they scored three against Swansea when Haaland didn't play.

Haaland's brace against Bournemouth brought his Premier League goal tally to 13 in 10 games. Overall, the 25-year-old has scored 26 goals for club and country this season. Guardiola has also expressed confidence that Haaland will improve. He said that they are so blessed and lucky to have Haaland, who he considers to be the sweetest and kindest person.

With the win, Manchester City is now six points behind league leaders Arsenal. Guardiola acknowledged Arsenal's strong form, saying they "look unstoppable right now because they play fantastic, they don't concede goals, and they are so solid". However, he remains optimistic about City's chances, stating, "when we make this step a little bit better, I think we will be closer". He also hopes Arsenal concedes one goal one day.