Guardiola Disappointed with Rico Lewis Red Card in Club World Cup

According to FIFA.com, Pep Guardiola criticized the referee’s decision to show a red card to Rico Lewis in the 88th minute as Manchester City defeated Wydad AC 2-0 in the Club World Cup.

Goals from Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku in the first half secured City’s convincing victory — however, the match ended on a sour note when Lewis was dismissed after a tackle on Samuel Obeng.

“Rico’s leg was a bit high, but he touched the ball first. With that speed, the leg has to be slightly high while the other player goes down. It wasn’t intentional,” Guardiola explained.

Obeng offered a different perspective on the incident:

“I think it’s a possible red card because although there was no intention, his boot touched my face after the action. It’s normal in football.”

Guardiola also shared positive news about Rodri’s return from knee ligament injury — the midfielder played 30 minutes as a substitute. Meanwhile, new signings Tijani Reinders and Ryan Cherki made their debuts for the team.