Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola apologised for his team’s part in the mass brawl that resulted in Sergio Aguero and Fernandinho being sent off at the end of their 3-1 defeat by Chelsea – but defended both players.
Chelsea had fought back from 1-0 down to secure an eighth straight win that moved them four points clear at the top of the Premier League, and City’s frustrations boiled over in injury time.
Aguero was dismissed for his wild lunge on Chelsea defender David Luiz, with team-mate Fernandinho also shown a red card for clashing with Cesc Fabregas in the melee that followed.
“It is a pity the game finished like this,” Guardiola said afterwards. “I don’t like that and I apologise for what happened.
“I don’t think Aguero’s challenge is intentional. Both players were strong, that is all.
“Then Fernandinho went over to defend his team-mate because of what the opponent did to Aguero.
“When (City winger) Nolito did that against Bournemouth, it was a red card for him and a three-game ban. That is why Fernandinho went to defend his team-mate, that is all.
“I have not spoken to him about it – if it is on TV, we will see about it.”