Guardiola criticises FA Cup ball after 20 shots off target
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has criticised the balls used in England’s domestic cup competitions.
His comments follow those of Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who was ridiculed earlier in the season when he expressed his anger over the ball being used in the Carabao Cup after a defeat against Newcastle in
the semi-final.
City were 3-1 winners in the FA Cup against Championship side Plymouth on Saturday, but had 20 shots off target in the match.
Guardiola said he was not happy with the Mitre balls used in the FA Cup.
“The ball in the Champions League is exceptional, the ball in the Premier League is exceptional, this one isn’t,” he said. “It’s difficult to control.
“When you lose it [sounds like] you’re complaining, but the ball is not right. In many years it’s happened in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, I know it’s a business and they come to agreements.
“You know how many shots went over? Look at other games. Normally the ball goes inside from these shots. “
Nike balls are used in the Premier League, with Adidas balls utilised in the Champions League, Kipsta balls in the Europa League and Puma balls for the EFL Cup.
SOURCE: BBC
