Despite contentious VAR decisions, the City boss insists he has “no questions” for the referees after a thrilling match at St. James’ Park.
In a dramatic Premier League clash on Saturday, Newcastle United edged Manchester City 2-1 in a match filled with missed chances, a quick-fire flurry of goals, and no shortage of controversy.
Despite his staff’s furious protests over a potential first-half penalty for a challenge on Phil Foden and a lengthy VAR review of Newcastle’s winning goal, City manager Pep Guardiola declined to point the finger at the officials.
“It is what it is after VAR decided. They know perfectly,” Guardiola told the BBC, adding that he had “no questions” for the referee despite speaking with him after the final whistle.
The game exploded into life in the second half after a first 45 minutes where both teams were left ruing missed opportunities. Newcastle’s Harvey Barnes broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute, only for City’s Rúben Dias to equalize three minutes later. Barnes then sealed the win for the Magpies with his second goal in the 70th minute, a strike that survived a check for several possible infractions in the build-up.
Reflecting on the frantic contest, Guardiola acknowledged the quality of both sides. “Both keepers were good and after we missed chances,” he said. “It was an entertaining game with many chances. Newcastle is a top side, top players, top manager, so unfortunately tonight we could not make the momentum that we had.”
The defeat is a significant blow to City’s title ambitions, denying them the chance to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal. The champions now sit third in the table, four points behind the Gunners and having played one more game.
For Newcastle, the rare victory over the reigning champions provides a massive boost after a slow start to their campaign. Match-winner Harvey Barnes expressed hope that this could be a turning point, telling the BBC, “Hopefully after today’s result we can kick on and go on a good run.”
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