Pep Guardiola expresses surprise over unfortunate Man City FA Cup final penalty drama
Pep Guardiola said he expected Erling Haaland to take Manchester City’s penalty during their FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace. But he explained that it was “decided on the pitch” that Omar Marmoush would take it instead – and Marmoush’s shot was saved.
City lost 1-0 to Palace at Wembley on Saturday, as Palace won their first major trophy.
City had a chance to equalise after Tyrick Mitchell fouled Bernardo Silva in the box. Haaland picked up the ball but gave it to Marmoush, who missed.
“They decided on the pitch,” Guardiola said.
“I don’t know. I didn’t speak with them. I thought Haaland would take it. But these things are up to the players.
“At that moment, it’s about how they feel. They thought Omar was ready. Henderson made a great save.”
Former England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, speaking on BBC, said it was unusual for a striker to give away a penalty chance.
“Erling Haaland is world class,” Rooney said. “But players like Messi or Ronaldo wouldn’t give that ball away.
“That’s the difference – they always want to score.
“When Haaland misses chances, it seems to affect him. Maybe the pressure at Wembley was too much. He’s human, after all.”
Palace keeper Dean Henderson was lucky not to be sent off after he seemed to handle the ball outside his area when Haaland chased a long pass. VAR looked at it but decided it wasn’t a clear goal-scoring chance, so Henderson stayed on.
Guardiola was asked about it but didn’t comment. “Ask VAR and the referee,” he said.
After the final whistle, Guardiola and Henderson had a short argument. They were seen talking during Palace’s celebrations, with Guardiola appearing unhappy about time-wasting.
“He defended his side, we defended ours,” Guardiola said.
“Everyone does what they think is right. We had to score. Well done to Henderson and Palace – they defended very well, and we couldn’t find the net.”
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