AfriPulse
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke has accused Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma of feigning an injury to facilitate an in-game tactical discussion during his side’s 3-2 defeat at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.
Manchester City led 2-0 at half-time through goals from Phil Foden and Josko Gvardiol, but Leeds responded in the second period through Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha, whose rebound levelled the match after his penalty was saved by Donnarumma.
Incident sparks dispute
Shortly before Leeds’ equaliser, Donnarumma signalled for medical attention.
During the stoppage, Pep Guardiola called his outfield players together to issue fresh tactical instructions following Leeds’ shift in formation.
Farke said after the match that the purpose of the goalkeeper’s stoppage was “obvious” and called for a review of the laws.
“It’s within the rules, so I can’t complain,” Farke said. “But if you can fake an injury to conduct an additional team talk, I don’t think it aligns with fair play. It is for the authorities to find a solution.”
Daniel Farke and Donnarumma after the game – Getty image
Guardiola responds
Guardiola, speaking to BBC Sport, said Leeds’ tactical adjustments created significant problems for his team.
He added that City ultimately regained control before Foden scored the decisive goal in the 91st minute.
Leeds remain in relegation zone
The defeat leaves Leeds 18th in the Premier League and extends their losing run to four matches. Farke said the performance should give his squad confidence despite the result.
Leeds now prepare for a challenging run of fixtures, beginning with home matches against Chelsea and Liverpool before travelling to Brentford and returning home to face Crystal Palace.
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