Guardiola Slams Red Card Decision for Rico Lewis

Pep Guardiola expressed strong frustration after Rico Lewis received a late red card in Manchester City’s 2-0 victory over Wydad Casablanca during their FIFA Club World Cup opener in Philadelphia.

The 20-year-old defender slid into a late challenge on Wydad forward Samuel Obeng in the 88th minute. Though he played the ball first, Lewis’ trailing boot made contact with Obeng’s face, prompting Brazilian referee Ramon Abatti to reach for a straight red after a VAR review upheld the decision.

Pep Guardiola stood by his player, saying Lewis had no bad intentions.

“He thought the leg was a little bit high, but he (Lewis) was on the grass, he touched the ball,” said Guardiola. “For the speed they go to touch the ball. Rico had no intention, he is a person who never has an intention to hurt anyone.

“It was unnecessary, honestly, the red card, but the referee had a different opinion and he’s the boss. They checked VAR, so we accept it.”

Lewis will now serve a suspension and miss City’s next Group G clash against Al Ain from the UAE, scheduled for Monday in Atlanta at 02:00 BST.

Earlier in the night, goals from Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku in the first half ensured a composed result for Guardiola’s side against the Moroccan champions.