After the heated Manchester derby, Jose Mourinho walked out of a press conference when pressed by journalists about the post-match skirmish.
The tension erupted as Mourinho and players from both teams clashed following City’s 2-1 win. City were celebrating with loud music in an open-door dressing room, which didn’t sit well with Manchester United staff who took offence. Read more about the FA investigation here.
Mourinho expressed disappointment over City’s behaviour, pointing out that his team showed much more respect in their recent victory against Arsenal at The Emirates.
“It was simply a matter of diversity – diversity in behaviour and education, nothing more,” Mourinho commented.
Asked to explain, Mourinho added: “There is diversity in opinion, behaviour and education.
What we did at Arsenal was completely different from what happened after this match, especially how we behaved as winners.”
“The contrast could not be clearer between the two approaches,” he said.
Mourinho’s irritation grew as the questions continued, and he became visibly angry when asked if he thought the FA would sanction United.
Regarding reports that striker Romelu Lukaku might face punishment for allegedly throwing a water bottle, Mourinho said: “You have to accuse, provide proof, show evidence, and then punish.”
He then abruptly exited the press briefing, expressing frustration about the focus on the incident rather than United’s upcoming match against Bournemouth.
“You don’t like Bournemouth, eh? You don’t show them respect,” Mourinho said as he left.
On the other side, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola defended his squad’s celebrations, but offered an apology if anyone was offended.
“If we offended Manchester United – not just one player or Jose Mourinho but the whole club – I sincerely apologise,” he said.
“We deserved to savour the moment. If that joy was misunderstood, then I’m sorry. We have just achieved a Premier League record with 14 consecutive wins.”
“Our intention was only to celebrate inside our dressing room, not to disrespect anyone. If we were in the wrong, I apologise to all at Manchester United.”
© TEAMtalk Media