Guardiola refuses to apologize for his comments on the number of Manchester City fans at the stadium

LONDON: Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has refused to apologize for inviting more fans to watch the team’s game against Southampton in the English Premier League. And the British news agency (BA Media) reported that Guardiola angered the team’s fans, after claiming in declarations of wanting to attend more than 38,000 spectators, the number that witnessed City’s sweeping victory over Leipzig at the start of the team’s Champions League campaign. Kevin Parker, the fan general secretary club City official, described Guardiola’s comments as “disappointing and unnecessary”, noting that fans’ loyalty to his team cannot be put in discussion by drawing attention to the number of attendees and empty seats. Parker added that Guardiola should take into account many reasons why fans may not attend matches. However, Guardiola confirmed that he did not mean that point, noting that his statements were misunderstood, explaining that he was speaking in general of the advantages of having a full stadium in a difficult match. Guardiola said in press conference, today, Friday: “Did I say after the Leipzig game that I was disappointed because the stadium wasn’t full?” He added: “The explanation is the same, I won’t apologize for what I said, I’m surprised what happened with that guy (Parker).” And the Spanish coach explained: “After five seasons, if people do not understand my behavior towards the fans, it is because they want to misunderstand exactly what I said. I will not apologize for a second for what I said because I was honest. . “He continued:” Over the past year and a half, and in two seasons, we played without them (the fans) unfortunately, but I am very grateful for the support we received against Leipzig in the last game. “” If you want to join us, we will be very happy if you come to see ours. match against Southampton because I know exactly how difficult the match will be, “he concluded. Tickets for Manchester City’s home games in the Champions League group stage usually do not sell out, which leads to ridicule of fans of others club. (Dpa)