Manchester City charged by FA after 'improper' behaviour of players ...

4 Dec 2023

Eurosport.com

Updated 04/12/2023 at 18:17 GMT

Manchester City players reacted strongly to Simon Hooper's officiating at the end of their 3-3 Premier League draw with Tottenham Hotspur. Erling Haaland was among those to surround the referee after he called the game back for a City foul, moments after seemingly playing advantage with Jack Grealish through on goal. The FA have now charged City for the reaction of their players.

Erling Haaland

Photo Eurosport.com

Image credit: Getty Images

A number of City's players rushed towards referee Simon Hooper when he played advantage after a foul on City striker Erling Haaland in the closing stages, only to then stop play moments later when Jack Grealish was through on goal.

Haaland, who was one of several players to remonstrate with Hooper about the call, later criticised the decision on social media.

The FA's statement read: “Manchester City have been charged with a breach of FA Rule E20.1 after their players surrounded the match official during the Premier League fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday 3 December 2023.

“It’s alleged that, during the 94th minute of the fixture, the club failed to ensure their players do not behave in a way which is improper.”

City have been given until Thursday, December 7 to respond to the charge.

Guardiola added: “It is hard when you review the image, the referee decides to blow the whistle after he has already said to play on.

“After the pass, the whistle, so I do not understand this action."

The draw at the Etihad Stadium came after a late equaliser from Spurs winger Dejan Kulusevski and leaves the Premier League title race wide open.

Three points separate the top three teams in the standings; leaders Arsenal on 33 points, Liverpool on 31 points and City on 30 points.

Aston Villa (29 pts), Tottenham (27 pts) and Newcastle (26 pts) are breathing down their neck further down the table.

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