Manchester City charged for player misconduct amid controversial referee decision

The Football Association has charged Manchester City for failing to ensure proper behavior from their players during added time in Sunday's Premier League match against Tottenham. The charge under FA Rule E20.1 alleges that City's players surrounded the match official in the 94th minute, leading to improper behavior.

The incident occurred when referee Simon Hooper awarded a free-kick to City despite Jack Grealish being through on goal. Erling Haaland, who provided the pass, expressed his frustration, and other City players surrounded the referee. City's response to the charge is expected by December 7.

After the game, Pep Guardiola refrained from heavy criticism, emphasizing the referee's decision to blow the whistle after initially signaling to play on. Despite the controversy, Guardiola did not attribute the draw to the refereeing decision.


City's 3-3 draw with Spurs left them in third place in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Arsenal. The upcoming focus for City is a match against in-form Aston Villa at Villa Park on Wednesday night.