Pep Guardiola expressed his disappointment after some fans at Elland Road booed during a stoppage for Muslim players observing Ramadan.
Play was paused in the 13th minute while Manchester City led 1-0, allowing fasting players to have food and drink as agreed in Premier League rules.
The break lasted 78 seconds after sunset, and a message was displayed in the stadium explaining the pause. Despite this, some fans continued to boo throughout the stoppage.
Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Guardiola Calls for Respect After Ramadan Stoppage Booed at Elland Road
The Manchester City manager spoke out after his team’s 1-0 victory against Leeds United, noting the pause for players to break their fast shortly after sunset.
He condemned the reactions from some fans as unacceptable, highlighting the importance of respect in today’s world.
“It is a modern world, right? We see what is happening today. Respect religion, diversity, that is the point,” he said.
“The Premier League allows one or two minutes for fasting players to break their fast. It’s unfortunate we have this reaction.”
Guardiola mentioned that players took vitamins during the break for health reasons, emphasizing that it shouldn’t be a problem.
“For the players, this is not new. They have been playing during Ramadan for years and know how to manage it,” he added.
Discussion Continues Around Faith and Football
Guardiola stressed the need to respect players who follow their religious practices within the rules of the competition.
“They observe this tradition. Our nutritionists ensure they have what they need. We can’t change the Premier League schedule, and they are experienced players,” he said.
The short pause, although allowed under league rules, prompted discussion due to the boos from some fans, making it a point of concern beyond the match outcome.
For Guardiola, the focus is on the principle of supporting fasting breaks as part of the modern Premier League.