Guardiola defends Bernardo Silva over tweet to Benjamin Mendy

Pep Guardiola insisted on Tuesday that Bernardo Silva is not guilty of racism over a tweet the Manchester City star sent to his team-mate Benjamin Mendy. The English Football Association has written to the Premier League champions requesting their observations after Silva posted pictures on social media on Sunday comparing Mendy to the character on a packet of Conguitos chocolates. Anti-racism organisation Kick It Out has called on English football’s governing body to take action.

City manager Guardiola was asked for his thoughts after his side’s 3-0 League Cup thirdround win at Preston. He was quick to defend Portugal star Silva from the accusations and said the pair are good friends. “Honestly, I don’t know what is going to happen but they should put the focus on other issues,” Guardiola said.