Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has faced criticism from Jewish community leaders for speaking on international issues instead of focusing solely on football.
The Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester & Region said Guardiola has “repeatedly strayed into commentary on international affairs,” which they believe has let down the club. They urged him to be “more careful with his language” amid rising anti-Semitism.
Guardiola Speaks Out on Global Conflicts
Guardiola recently addressed global conflicts during a press conference and a charity event in Barcelona. He expressed concern for Palestinian children and mentioned the suffering caused by wars in Ukraine, Sudan.
“If it was the opposite side, it would hurt me. Wanting harm for another country? It hurts me. Completely killing thousands of innocent people hurts me,” Guardiola said.
Council Urges Focus on Football
“Manchester City is being let down by him repeatedly straying into commentary on international affairs,” the council said.
The statement referenced last October’s attack on the Heaton Park Synagogue, where two people were killed. It criticized Guardiola for not using his platform to show solidarity with Jewish communities affected by nearby violence in Manchester and Barcelona.
Call for Careful Language
The council emphasized the need for public figures to be mindful of their words due to threats against the Jewish community worldwide. They called on Guardiola to exercise caution in future statements.
Manchester City declined to comment on the issue.
