Mikel Arteta’s tirade at St. James’ Park was exploited by Pep Guardiola to sidestep a question after Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City drew 3-3.
One of the biggest talking points of the season revolved around Newcastle United’s contentious victory against Arsenal in their match last month. Premier League officiating has been called a “disgrace” and “embarrassing” to English football by an enraged Arteta.
Referee Simon Hooper made a controversial decision at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, preventing Jack Grealish from scoring a goal during stoppage time. Emerson Royal had cut down Erling Haaland, but he got back up and sent Grealish through for a goal.
The referee then denied the advantage he seemed to first give and stopped play as the England international was ready to bear down on Guglielmo Vicario. Haaland and City supporters were incensed at the ruling that finally verified the draw.
Speaking post-match, Guardiola fired a cheeky dig at Arteta, his former assistant, when grilled about the incident. The Spaniard also refused to criticise Haaland following his explosive rant at full-time.
“Next question (when asked about the Grealish call),” he said. “I will not do a Mikel Arteta comment. The referee will now whistle after saying play on, after the pass then whistles. So I don’t know.