Pep Guardiola is dealing with a two-match touchline ban after a heated confrontation with officers throughout Manchester Metropolis’s 3–1 FA Cup victory over Newcastle United on March 7, 2026.
The incident occurred within the second half when Jérémy Doku gave the impression to be fouled however the referee allowed play to proceed. Guardiola reacted furiously on the touchline and confronted fourth official Lewis Smith, prompting referee Sam Barrott to indicate him his sixth yellow card of the season.
Footage of the second shortly circulated on-line, sparking reactions from followers. One supporter, Tangerine, joked on social media by way of his x deal with:
“They need to ban him 😂😂😂 That’s bullying.”
watch video beneath;
Guardiola later performed down the state of affairs throughout his post-match press convention, humorously saying he would “go on vacation” whereas serving the suspension.
The punishment means Guardiola will miss Manchester Metropolis’s Premier League journey to West Ham United and their upcoming FA Cup quarter-final, though he’ll nonetheless be allowed on the touchline for Metropolis’s essential UEFA Champions League conflict with Actual Madrid.
Regardless of the controversy, Guardiola has continued to indicate respect for his rivals this season. Earlier in 2026, he described Arsenal as “the very best group on this planet proper now,” citing their dominance throughout home and European competitions.
The Metropolis supervisor additionally lately celebrated a private milestone, turning 55 years previous on January 18, 2026. Since taking cost of Manchester Metropolis in 2016, Guardiola has constructed a exceptional legacy, profitable 18 trophies with the membership.
Softfootball experiences, Guardiola’s fiery presence on the sidelines stays one in every of his defining traits driving Manchester Metropolis’s relentless mentality whereas sometimes placing him at odds with match officers.
