Pep Guardiola reacts as Leeds United fans boo Ramadan break
During a Premier League clash between Leeds United and Manchester City on Saturday night, some fans at Elland Road expressed disapproval of a brief pause in play to accommodate the Ramadan fast. The stoppage, initiated by referee Peter Bankes at the 12th minute, allowed three players—Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Omar Marmoush—to consume food and water after sunset.
While the break was intended to support Muslim players observing the fast, it drew criticism from a section of the crowd. A message highlighting the religious practice was displayed on stadium screens, yet the reaction from fans included boos and chants deemed offensive.
Guardiola defends the practice
“It’s the modern world, right? Look what’s happening in the world right now today again, right?” said Guardiola, addressing the fan backlash. “It’s a rule, we didn’t say it, the Premier League said it’s okay for the fasting you can have one or two minutes, so the players do it. It is what it is, unfortunately.”
Leeds assistant manager Edmund Riemer acknowledged the criticism, stating: “I’m focused on the game so I don’t really hear it but disappointed with some supporters that that happened.”
Kick It Out calls for better understanding
Kick It Out released a statement condemning the incident, noting: “It’s massively disappointing that some Leeds United fans booed when Manchester City’s players broke their fast during the first half of the match at Elland Road this evening. This was compounded by the fact that an explanation was displayed on a big screen inside the stadium.”
The organization emphasized that pausing the game for Muslim players to break their fast has been a standard protocol for years, aiming to make football more inclusive. However, they pointed out that the event highlighted the need for greater education and acceptance within the sport.
ArrowMORE: Paul Merson says £67.5m Arsenal star will be the ‘X-factor’ in title race with Man City
ArrowMORE: Newcastle star labelled ‘worst-ever Premier League signing’ after Alan Shearer claim
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy
