Pep Guardiola has launched a fierce defence of Manchester City’s exuberant celebrations following their dramatic 2-1 victory over Arsenal, dismissing criticism from Wayne Rooney as “stupid.”
Erling Haaland’s late winner sent the Etihad Stadium into a frenzy on Sunday, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma leaping into the crowd, Guardiola’s coaching staff storming the pitch, and a bare-chested Haaland swirling his shirt above his head. The victory keeps City firmly in the Premier League title race, with a win over Burnley on Wednesday enough to send them to the top of the table.
Rooney’s Comments Spark Guardiola’s Fury
Speaking on Match of the Day, former England captain Wayne Rooney described the celebrations as “a bit over the top,” with fellow pundit Danny Murphy agreeing they “felt a bit much.” Guardiola, without naming Rooney directly, was quick to push back, arguing that the magnitude of the fixture entirely justified the emotional response from his players and staff.
“People can say whatever stupid things they want to say,” Guardiola said. “They celebrated because they know the value of the opponent. They knew if we didn’t win it would be bye bye.”
Every Game Deserves a Celebration, Says Guardiola
The City manager has made it a point of emphasis this season, instructing his players to applaud supporters after every match regardless of the result. He insisted that waiting until a title is clinched to celebrate is simply not his philosophy.
“What sense is there not to live it?” he said. “It was a final. Especially for us. And of course you have to celebrate it.”
City now turn their attention to Burnley as the title race enters its most decisive phase.