Guardiola also finds fault with the balls in the FA Cup
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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has criticised the balls used in FA Cup competitions, writes KosovaPress. His comments follow those of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who was ridiculed earlier in the season when he expressed his anger over the use of the ball in the Carabao Cup after a defeat to Newcastle in the semi-final.
City won 3-1 in the FA Cup against Championship side Plymouth on Saturday, but had 20 shots on target in the match. Guardiola said he was not happy with the Mitre balls used in the FA Cup.
"The ball in the Champions League is extraordinary, the ball in the Premier League is extraordinary, this one is not," he said. "It's difficult to control. When you lose it you seem to complain, but the ball is not the right one. It's happened for many years in the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup, I know it's a business and they come to an agreement. Do you know how many shots were missed? Look at other games. Normally the ball goes in from these shots," Guardiola continued in his post-match press conference, following KosovaPress.
Nike balls are used in the Premier League, Adidas balls in the Champions League, Kipsta balls in the Europa League and Puma balls for the EFL Cup.
In response to Guardiola's comments, a Football Association spokesman said: "The Mitre Ultimax Pro ball - used in the Emirates FA Cup and all other FA competitions - has been tested in accordance with FIFA testing.
City's three goals in Saturday's FA Cup tie came from 29 shots, nine of which were on target. Clubs are provided with the appropriate balls for training ahead of cup matches.
KosovaPress
