Following Manchester City’s 2-0 victory over Wolves, Pep Guardiola fiercely criticized the referees, claiming he requires all his top players fit and available to counteract poor officiating decisions.
Guardiola was particularly agitated after referee Farai Hallam—making his Premier League debut—dismissed the VAR advice from Darren England and chose not to award City a penalty in the first half.
Although Hallam was called to the pitchside monitor, he opted to stick with his initial decision.
He informed the crowd that “after review, the ball struck the arm of the Wolves player, which was in a natural position, so we will maintain the on-field decision.”
“I would love to have the players available to fight against those [referee] decisions. We secured the win despite them,” Guardiola said.
“The referee made a significant debut; now everyone will know who he is. I think this is the first time they reviewed a situation where the arms were in what is considered a ‘normal’ position.”
In addition to the controversial decision at St James’ Park that infuriated Guardiola, he also expressed frustration over Anthony Taylor’s failure to show a red card to Diogo Dalot for a knee-high challenge on Jérémy Doku during City’s recent 2-0 loss to Manchester United.
Three days later, Howard Webb appeared on the Premier League’s Match Officials Mic’d Up show to support Taylor and VAR Craig Pawson.
“I’m certain Howard Webb will appear in the media tomorrow to explain why it wasn’t a penalty and what happened against United, as if it were the first time he’s done so due to some uncertainty,” Guardiola remarked.
“This is why Jeremy couldn’t play in Norway against Bodo/Glimt—because of Dalot’s action.”
“But it’s fine. I’m waiting for tomorrow. Don’t wait until Wednesday—Champions League is upon us, and we’re busy. Howard Webb, come tomorrow and explain why it’s not a penalty. Bring my players back so we can fight through what we’ve faced since day one. It’s simply too much.”
While City celebrated their first league win of 2026 with goals from Omar Marmoush, standing in for a rested Erling Haaland, and Semenyo, the outcome halted Wolves’ five-match unbeaten streak in all competitions.
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Burnley’s draw against Tottenham leaves them even deeper in the relegation zone, but coach Rob Edwards found silver linings in the performance.
“We were pushing, hit the crossbar, and had several opportunities,” Edwards stated. “Even in defeat, I believe we can take a lot from this match. It might look like a routine victory, but I don’t see it that way. I thought we played well, but they were just better.”