Pep Guardiola Suspended for Manchester City’s Premier League Clash Against Leicester

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola will be absent from the dugout when his side faces Leicester City in their upcoming Premier League fixture at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, April 2.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will miss the Leicester match due to a suspension

The Spaniard received his third yellow card of the season during City's FA Cup clash against Bournemouth on Sunday, March 30, resulting in a one-match touchline ban per Premier League regulations.

Although Guardiola was booked during an FA Cup match, the yellow card contributes to his overall Premier League disciplinary record. This means he will be ineligible to lead his team from the sidelines for City's midweek league game against Leicester.

According to Premier League rules, a manager who accumulates three yellow cards in a single season will receive a one-game suspension, irrespective of whether the bookings occurred in league or domestic cup competitions.

Guardiola was booked during Manchester City’s 2-1 FA Cup victory over Bournemouth, where Ghana Black Stars forward Antoine Semenyo played the full 90 minutes for the Cherries. The City manager received a yellow card after expressing his dissatisfaction to the fourth official, a decision that will now force him to miss the Leicester fixture.

This latest booking follows two previous yellow cards he received earlier in the 2024/25 season, pushing him past the threshold that triggers a suspension.

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Guardiola’s suspension comes at a crucial stage in the season as Manchester City continues to push for a top-four finish in the English Premier League. The defending champions currently sit fifth in the table, making every match critical in their pursuit of a Champions League spot.

With Guardiola absent from the touchline, his assistant coaches will take charge of in-game management, but his tactical presence and influence will be sorely missed. Known for his intense passion and emotional involvement during matches, Guardiola’s absence could affect how City adapts to tactical changes and in-game situations.

Guardiola’s History with Refereeing Decisions

Guardiola has previously clashed with referees and officials, often voicing his frustrations over controversial decisions. While he is usually composed, his competitive nature and desire for fair treatment have led to occasional disciplinary issues.

Despite this, the ex-Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach has always maintained that his actions stem from a commitment to protecting his team and ensuring fair play.

What’s Next for Manchester City?

• Manchester City vs. Leicester City (April 2, 2025) – Guardiola will serve his suspension and watch from the stands.

• Assistant coaches to lead the team in his absence.

• Upcoming matches in the Premier League will determine whether City secures a top-four finish and qualifies for the UEFA Champions League.

With the title race and Champions League spots still undecided, Guardiola’s touchline ban comes at a time when City can afford no slip-ups.

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