Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has publicly condemned Manchester United supporters for their “shameful” behavior towards Phil Foden during the latest Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
The match, which ended in a lackluster 0-0 draw, saw tensions rise both on and off the pitch particularly as a section of the home crowd directed offensive chants at the City midfielder and his family.
Foden, a lifelong Manchester City player and England international, was subbed off after 58 minutes of play, having struggled to make an impact.
As he walked off the pitch, a loud group of United fans could be heard chanting derogatory remarks targeting Foden’s mother.
The chants widely condemned across social media and by football pundits prompted an impassioned response from Guardiola in his post-match press conference.
Guardiola: “They Should Be Ashamed”
Guardiola, visibly angry, did not hold back when asked about the chants.
“It’s a lack of class. But it’s not Manchester United as a club it’s certain individuals in the stands.”
“We are so exposed managers, owners, football players, especially. I cannot understand how people bring someone’s mother into this.”
“It’s a complete lack of integrity and class.
They should be ashamed of themselves. Unfortunately, this is not unique to the UK it happens in stadiums around the world, but that doesn’t make it right.”
The Manchester derby is historically a fixture charged with intensity and rivalry, but Guardiola emphasized that passion for the game should never cross the line into personal abuse, especially involving players’ families.
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Phil Foden’s Struggles Continue
This latest controversy comes amid a difficult period for Phil Foden, who has been far from his best this season. Despite a standout January where he scored six goals in just four appearances Foden has struggled for form and consistency throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
It’s a stark contrast to last season, when the 24-year-old was crowned Premier League Player of the Season after a phenomenal run that helped Manchester City clinch another league title.
Foden’s creative spark and goal-scoring ability were key to City’s dominance, but he has since looked a shadow of his former self.
Guardiola, however, was quick to defend his player, as well as the team’s overall performance in what was otherwise a dull derby stalemate.
“I think they played really well,” he told BBC Sport after the game. “Rico Lewis was excellent. I’m satisfied with all of them.”
“We put players on the pitch who can score Omar Marmoush and Phil Foden. With Gundo and Kev [Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne] delivering quality crosses and passes, the intent was there.”
Guardiola also acknowledged the physical demands and tactical discipline required in derby matches, noting that City maintained intensity throughout, even if they couldn’t find the breakthrough.
Manchester Derby Ends in Frustration for Both Sides
While the focus has largely shifted to the off-pitch incidents, the game itself did little to capture the imagination. Both City and United lacked creative edge, with neither side able to create clear-cut chances in front of goal.
City had more possession and territory but failed to convert it into meaningful opportunities.
United, on the other hand, were mostly reactive and lacked attacking cohesion. The result leaves both clubs with ground to make up in the Premier League title race, and raises further questions about their consistency in big matches.
Football Community Reacts
Following the incident, fans and pundits alike took to social media to condemn the offensive chants directed at Foden.
Many called on football authorities to take action against abusive behavior in stadiums, citing the growing need for respect and sportsmanship in modern football.
While Guardiola’s words may not put an end to such incidents, they underscore the responsibility clubs and fans alike have to foster a respectful environment—one where rivalry doesn’t give way to personal attacks.
The Manchester derby may not have delivered excitement on the pitch, but the fallout from the match has sparked important conversations about fan behavior and the treatment of footballers.
For Phil Foden, the focus will now shift to regaining form and silencing critics with performances on the pitch.
Meanwhile, Guardiola’s passionate defense of his players highlights the bond within the Manchester City squad and the expectation that dignity and respect must always come first, even in football’s fiercest rivalries.
