Pep Guardiola Slams Derogatory Chants Aimed at Phil Foden's Mother
What happened at Old Trafford during the recent Manchester derby was more than just a football moment—it was a reminder that there’s still a long way to go when it comes to respect in the game. After a goalless draw between Manchester City and Manchester United, Pep Guardiola didn’t hold back in his post-match comments. But it wasn’t just the result that had him talking—it was the behavior from a section of United fans who targeted Phil Foden with chants involving his mother.
Guardiola called it what it was: a “lack of class.” And honestly, he’s absolutely right. During the first half, while City were attacking toward the Stretford End, Foden was hit with chants that crossed a line. It wasn’t about football banter or rivalry—it was personal and completely uncalled for. Guardiola made it clear that this wasn’t about Manchester United as a club, but about the individuals who chose to stoop that low. “We are so exposed,” he said, referring to how football players, coaches, and public figures constantly have to deal with this level of scrutiny and abuse.
Also Read:- Dellavedova's Next Move: Kings in Pole Position as United Exit Looms
- Ontario and B.C. Push Back Hard on Soaring U.S. Lumber Tariffs
What stood out in Guardiola’s words was how he emphasized the shame in involving someone’s family, especially someone’s mum, in this kind of abuse. It’s not just unsportsmanlike—it’s cruel. He went on to say it shows a lack of integrity and that those responsible should be ashamed of themselves. And he’s not wrong. There’s rivalry, there’s passion, and then there’s just disgraceful behavior that drags the game down.
The game itself? A dull 0-0 draw that leaves City in fifth place, just behind Chelsea, with seven matches remaining. But that’s barely what anyone’s talking about now. The incident has overshadowed the match, sparking a wider conversation about fan behavior and where the line needs to be drawn. City were understandably shocked and disgusted by the chants, and United have also expressed condemnation of any abusive fan behavior.
Football, at its best, brings people together. It inspires loyalty, pride, and sometimes even intense rivalry—but it should never descend into personal attacks, especially those involving someone’s family. The fact that a player like Phil Foden, who gives everything for his club and country, has to deal with this kind of abuse from the stands is disappointing.
At the end of the day, this isn't about club colors—it's about basic human decency. And if we can’t draw the line at a player’s mother being insulted from the terraces, then it’s time to seriously rethink what we’re accepting as part of the “game.” Pep said it best: “They should be ashamed.”
Read More:
0 Comments