Pep Guardiola has been given a warning from the English Football Association over his recent comments about referee Anthony Taylor.
A source said that Guardiola has been warned about talking about his officials ahead of matches in the future and could face a charge if he offends again.
But it was decided not to charge him as this was his first indiscretion and that his views were noted to be neutral. Managers are not supposed to discuss referees in prematch news conferences, in either a derogatory or complimentary manner.
“He is going to try to do the best job like we try as managers and football players,” Guardiola said when asked about Manchester-based Taylor taking charge of the match in his news conference on Nov. 9 — two days before the fixture. “Mr Taylor is going to try and make a good time.
“The important thing is to focus on our game and of course knowing which opponent we are going to face and that is all. Hopefully they can make good decisions for both sides, and a good game, like all England and all Europe is going to watch us. That is the most important pleasure.
“The referee doesn’t want to make a mistake. He knows everyone from around the world is going to watch him and he doesn’t want to make a mistake, that is pretty sure. But, if he is fan of United or City, everyone can be a fan of whoever he wants so no problem.”
Although Taylor awarded a penalty to United in the second half of City’s 3-1 win, the game passed off without any controversy.
The FA had asked Guardiola for his observations on the matter.
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