Chelsea coach Mauricio Pochettino has issued an apology for his recent post-match outburst on the referees following his side’s 4-4 draw with Manchester City in the Premier League.
In the thrilling encounter at Stamford Bridge, City took the lead three times, only to be equalized. The fans were stunned when Rodri’s 86th-minute deflected strike appeared to secure an important win for the visitors. However, midfielder Cole Palmer’s late penalty ensured the home side did grab a vital point.
Pochettino’s frustration was directed at referee Anthony Taylor, whom he accused of prematurely ending the game and denying his team a chance to score.
Just as the game ended, the Argentine showed his frustration by angrily shouting at Anthony Taylor at the final whistle. This resulted in a straight yellow card.
Must Read: Chelsea intensifying their efforts to sign Napoli striker Victor Osimhen
Despite Pep Guardiola waiting for a handshake, the Blues’ manager did not engage in the customary post-match pleasantries.
Later, Pochettino issued an apology for his behaviour, stating (as quoted by The Guardian):
“I need to apologise to Anthony and the [assistant] referees and the fourth official. At this moment, I feel that maybe Raheem (Sterling) can go through and go to score the fifth and when the game finishes, I turn and say: ‘What the … ?”
“I said: ‘Why stop in this moment, the action?’ Then I turned and said: ‘I deserve to be booked.’ Because I crossed the limit, I want to apologise because it’s not a good image for me and football, this type of behaviour.”
The emotions ran high in the last game, especially given the importance of this intense and tough clash.
Pochettino’s behaviour in the heat of the moment could have been more composed. Nevertheless, it’s a positive thing that he has acknowledged his lapse in judgment and issued an apology for his behaviour.
Also Read: Dimitar Berbatov warns Nicolas Jackson despite scoring hattrick for Chelsea
Last week, Mikel Arteta expressed frustration following Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United.
The manager talked against the officials for allowing Anthony Gordon’s goal to be given. He called this decision a huge disgrace to the English League.
