Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has condemned Manchester United supporters for showing a “lack of class” following vulgar chants directed at Phil Foden’s mother during Sunday’s Premier League derby at Old Trafford. The goalless draw ended without major incidents on the field, but tensions escalated off the pitch as chants from the stands targeted the England midfielder and his family.
Speaking in the post-match press conference, Guardiola expressed disappointment over the behavior from some sections of the United fanbase. “The chants towards him? That’s a lack of class,” said Guardiola. “But I don’t want to generalize. It’s not Manchester United as a club, it’s individuals in the crowd. In this age of global football, players, coaches, and officials are under constant scrutiny. Involving someone’s mother crosses a line.”
He continued, “This is not only about England. These things are happening across the football world. It shows a lack of integrity and human decency. People who do this should feel ashamed.”
The highly anticipated clash failed to deliver on the pitch as both Manchester clubs looked uninspired. The draw meant City lost the opportunity to climb into the Premier League’s top four, while United remain stuck in 13th position. Guardiola acknowledged the underwhelming performance but praised moments of control in the second half. “The first 10 to 15 minutes after halftime were our best spells. We were more aggressive, but overall we didn’t do enough to win. Old Trafford is always a tough place,” he admitted.
Meanwhile, Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim addressed criticism from former United defender Gary Neville, who described the dull draw as “more like a friendly than a derby.” Amorim didn’t dispute the harsh analysis but asked for patience. “Gary is always critical, and rightly so,” he said. “We are in one of the worst seasons in the club’s history. City, despite winning everything recently, are also struggling. This wasn’t a classic derby.”
He added, “Getting back to the level we aspire to will take time. We must adjust our strategy depending on the opponent. City’s style has evolved over years. We’re progressing, but matching their level won’t happen overnight.”
With both clubs facing their own battles this season, Sunday’s match served more as a reminder of their current limitations than a showcase of elite football.