Pep Guardiola has reacted cautiously to the controversy surrounding West Ham United’s disallowed late goal against Arsenal, refusing to be drawn into the VAR debate despite the huge implications in the Premier League title race.
The Manchester City boss admitted his focus immediately shifted to City’s upcoming match rather than the controversial decision that denied West Ham a stoppage-time equaliser. Guardiola had earlier jokingly urged the Hammers to “do a favour” for City in the title race, even ending a recent press conference with “Come on you Irons!” while making the club’s crossed-hammers gesture.
West Ham thought they had rescued a point when Callum Wilson scored deep into added time, but VAR ruled the goal out after determining that Pablo Felipe fouled Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya in the buildup.
The decision sparked widespread debate among fans, pundits, and former players, with many questioning the consistency of VAR interventions in similar situations.
Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s clash with Crystal Palace, Guardiola chose not to directly criticise the officials, instead insisting that City must concentrate on winning their own matches as Arsenal.
He also spoke about the possibility of Crystal Palace playing a weaker team against Arsenal in the final game of the season.
He said,
“No, all the teams are professional. Aston Villa had nothing to play for when we faced them, and it was so difficult to beat them. So I am pretty sure that they [Crystal Palace] will do their best.”
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