Pep Guardiola hits back at Premier League fines with fresh Manchester City claim | OneFootball

Manchester City will need to avoid in-game team-talks if they want to prevent themselves from receiving any further Premier League fines, Pep Guardiola has said.

City’s win over Leeds was far from straightforward, despite a blistering start at the Etihad. Phil Foden struck inside the opening minute and added a stoppage-time winner, while Josko Gvardiol also found the net as Guardiola’s side momentarily moved to within four points of league leaders Arsenal.

After dominating the opening stages, City were forced into a tense second half as Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha dragged Leeds back into the contest, capitalising on rare defensive lapses from the hosts.

The match became noticeably fractious as the second period wore on, partly due to a stoppage involving Gianluigi Donnarumma in which Guardiola gathered his players for instructions – an action that became a point of debate when he faced the media post-match.

With Manchester City previously fined for returning late after half-time on several occasions, the scrutiny around timekeeping and on-pitch conduct remains a recurring theme for the Catalan coach.

Guardiola’s frustration was evident after full-time, particularly as the Premier League has been increasingly strict on procedural regulations. His side have already been warned more than once over lateness, technical area infringements, and in-game conduct.

Speaking to reporters after City’s recent win over Leeds United, Pep Guardiola was quizzed for his thoughts on regrouping his on-field stars midway through the second-half during an injury timeout for Donnarumma.

“I’m pretty sure if we do it again, the Premier League will fine us again. So it’s better that we don’t do it,” said Guardiola.

He continued, “When we’re five seconds late at half-time, always we have to pay [the Premier League] a lot, a lot of money.

“Now I have to wait 30 minutes to come here [to the press conference] because Daniel [Farke], of course, has to speak, and after it’s not a problem.

“Hopefully they don’t fine me because I’m 30 minutes late, it’s just because Daniel Farke was here. Premier League, you know it now!”

Pep Guardiola’s comments signal a growing tension between City and the league’s disciplinary processes. While City remain focused on closing the gap to Arsenal, the manager’s remarks hint at a wider belief that the enforcement of certain rules has become overly rigid.

Looking ahead, City may need to adjust their in-game behaviour, with Guardiola now seemingly resigned to avoiding even harmless tactical huddles to steer clear of future sanctions.

As the title race tightens, scrutiny on every decision only intensifies. Guardiola may well look for clarity from league officials, but his public frustration suggests that this friction could resurface again before the season is over.