Pep Guardiola, the Manchester City manager, has strongly criticized Manchester United fans for what he described as “shameful” chants targeting Phil Foden`s mother.
During the recent match at Old Trafford, some home fans were heard chanting offensive words about Phil Foden`s mother.
Guardiola stated that such behavior demonstrated a “lack of class.”
He emphasized the public scrutiny faced by figures in football, including managers, owners, and especially players.
Sources within Manchester City reportedly expressed shock and disgust at the chants, highlighting both the number of fans involved and the repeated nature of the abusive remarks about Foden’s mother, Claire.
Guardiola questioned the mentality of individuals who would target a player`s mother with such insults.
He reiterated his condemnation, describing it as a lack of integrity and class, and asserted that those responsible “should be ashamed.”
Foden himself responded with a brief message on social media.
Guardiola also acknowledged his surprise at Manchester City`s recent decline in performance.
The team currently sits fifth in the league, trailing Chelsea by one point, as they struggle to secure a Champions League qualification spot.
Guardiola is trying to understand the reasons behind the sudden downturn for the team that previously won four consecutive league titles.
Phil Foden is among the players whose performance has dipped, despite beginning the season as a two-time Player of the Year.
Guardiola admitted that the team`s overall performance has declined significantly this season, not just Foden`s.
He noted that last season, Foden`s impact was consistently high, but currently, both his and the team`s performance are not at their usual level, which was evident in the recent game.
Meanwhile, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim dismissed criticism from former player Gary Neville, who suggested that the post-match friendly interactions between players indicated both teams were content with a draw.
Amorim needs to win all of United’s remaining seven games to surpass the club`s lowest Premier League points total of 58, recorded in 2021-22.
He responded to Neville`s remarks by acknowledging Neville`s tendency to be critical.
Amorim recognized that Manchester United is currently having its worst season in history.
He stated his awareness of the team`s current situation and the urgency to improve, given the limited time available at a club like Manchester United.
Earlier, over 1,000 Manchester United fans staged a protest against the Glazer ownership and rising ticket prices for more than 30 minutes.
Additionally, around 500 fans protested against being relocated from their seats to accommodate a new premium tunnel club for the upcoming season.
