PEP GUARDIOLA will not accept any Manchester City fan insulting Sir Bobby Charlton, vowing: “They do not represent us.”
City banned two supporters — both minors — who were filmed mocking the death of England 1966 World Cup winner Charlton last weekend.
The legend’s former club Manchester United will hold a minute’s applause ahead of Sunday’s emotionally-charged Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
And City have warned any fans who misbehave will be banned and reported to police.
Guardiola said: “They don’t represent us.
“Alcohol makes bad things in people.
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“We have a lot of respect for United, especially the iconic figures like Sir Bobby Charlton.
“We will be part of the condolences for the family, Manchester United and English football.”
Security officials trawled through CCTV footage to identify the young fans who sang sick chants on the Etihad concourse — after Charlton’s death, aged 86, was announced.
But Guardiola preferred to focus on the loss felt by City ambassador and legend Mike Summerbee — who played alongside Charlton for England.
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He added: “What represents us is Mike Summerbee going to Old Trafford to sign the book on behalf of Man City.”
Guardiola also added his tribute, writing: “Thanks for Bobby Charlton to make our football the best place to live. Never ever will you be forgotten.”
City fans observed an impeccable silence at the 2008 Old Trafford derby marking 50 years since the Munich air disaster.
And Guardiola sees no reason why tomorrow’s tributes should not be similarly appropriate.
The Spaniard said: “This is definitely going to happen. It’s a good rivalry and each club respects the other.
“It’s my eighth season here and no big issues happened. We won games, we lost games.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
