Rúben Dias Criticizes Refereeing Decision in Manchester City’s Defeat
Manchester City defender Rúben Dias expressed his discontent with the referee’s decision that allowed Newcastle’s winning goal last Saturday. The Portuguese player pointed out the inconsistency in the referee’s decisions as a factor that “makes no sense.” Harvey Barnes scored a brace to give Newcastle the victory at St James’ Park. The second goal, which generated controversy, came after a corner in which Barnes appeared to push City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Donnarumma angrily protested the action to the referee after the goal, but VAR did not intervene to annul it.
Days, when speaking after the match, he added: “The second goal, Gigio is in his place, they push him and there are no consequences. It is allowed. I had the opportunity to see it again and I didn’t even realize it on the field.” The defender also commented on the play: “I thought it was strange that he was out of position, so we immediately knew something was wrong. But I was able to see the replay and it’s Barnes pushing him away from the goal. We are very picky about certain contacts, but one like this with the goalkeeper, do you allow it? It is what it is. If that’s the rule, fine. But let us do the same.” Days continued: “In the past, this was a foul. Now, apparently, it’s allowed. People will say I’m looking for excuses, but it’s nothing like that. Today Newcastle was better and deserved the victory. That’s why they were able to score more opportunities than us. In the end, all I’m saying is that there has to be a rule.”Of all the decisions, only the second goal… I think we need it to make sense. Sometimes you allow it, sometimes you don’t. Where is the rule? What can you really do?
Rúben Dias
With the defeat, Manchester City missed the opportunity to reduce Arsenal’s lead in the Premier League.If he complained, it’s because something bad happened. The same thing happened in Bournemouth. It is what it is.
Pep Guardiola
