Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expressed his outrage over derogatory chants directed at Phil Fodenโs mother by some Manchester United fans during the Manchester derby. Despite the lack of on-field tension between the players, some United supporters hurled abusive chants at Foden throughout the match, which ended in a dull 0-0 draw at Old Trafford.
Guardiola was quick to condemn the behavior, emphasizing that while itโs not representative of Manchester United as a club, itโs still unacceptable. โItโs a lack of class, and they should be ashamed,โ he said, highlighting the global exposure of football and the need for integrity and respect.
Foden had a tough afternoon, struggling to make an impact and eventually being substituted for Jack Grealish. Guardiola dismissed suggestions that Foden is lacking confidence, pointing to the playerโs passion and smile in training. He stressed that Fodenโs quality and form will return, citing his crucial role in Cityโs title win last year.
The manager emphasized that the teamโs current struggles are a collective issue, not just Fodenโs, and that the quality is still there. โWhen the team is not playing at the level that we had, it looks like everyone is not what they were,โ he said. Guardiola remains focused on a strong finish to the season, with the FA Cup semi-finals and eight remaining league games providing opportunities for redemption and growth.
Guardiolaโs message was clear: Foden will bounce back, and the team will fight to make the most of the remaining games. โEveryone is going to give everything, and learning for the guys who played every single game, how they impacted, and this is what theyโre going to do.โ