Former FIFA referee deemed Doku's yellow card for simulation a mistake and assessed Guardiola's emotions

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15 mar 2025 11:00
English Premier League
Manchester City Brighton
2
2

The recent match between Manchester City and Brighton ended in a 2-2 draw, and during this match, referee Simon Hooper made a controversial decision by showing a yellow card to Jeremy Doku for simulation. According to former FIFA referee and ex-head of PGMOL Keith Hackett, it was unjustified.

Details: Hackett believes that there was no simulation in Doku's actions, as he had no other option but to fall to the ground. Meanwhile, Manchester City's head coach Pep Guardiola demanded an explanation from Hooper in a somewhat improper manner, stepping onto the pitch after the whistle, which is regulated by Premier League rules.

Quote: "Guardiola would better serve the game if he discussed this incident thirty minutes after the game. There is an agreement that after thirty minutes and a 'cooling-off' period, a manager can knock on the referees' room door and ask for clarifications.

This is a poor decision by Hooper because it's clear that the Manchester City player, having made an evasive maneuver, fell to the ground. He didn't fall as a result of simulation, attempting to deceive the referee. This is a poor reading of the game by referee Hooper. Of course, an appeal against a yellow card is not allowed," Hackett stated in an interview with Football Insider.

Reminder: Following the match with Brighton, Manchester City is nearing an unwelcome record.

Lars Foster Lars Foster Dailysports's expert Translated by the editors
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