Pep Guardiola admits FA Charge of wearing political message
He's been seen wearing a yellow ribbon in support of political leaders jailed in Spain.
Pep Guardiola has admitted a charge by the FA of "wearing a political message'' after being seen displaying a yellow ribbon on his jacket during City's matches.
The manager's accepted that it's a breach of the governing body's kit and advertising regulations, however, it's understood Guardiola's response is one of observing - rather than respecting - the rules of the country he is working in.
The 47-year-old has been wearing the ribbon in support of political leaders jailed following the Catalonia independence referendum last October, which was declared illegal by Spain.
The Catalan-born City boss, a former Barcelona manager and captain, has argued that the symbol is not political but he will now stop wearing it on the touchline.
An FA statement read: "Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted an FA charge for wearing a political message, specifically a yellow ribbon, in breach of the FA's kit and advertising regulations. A paper hearing has been requested, with a date to be set in due course.''
Guardiola, who could face a fine, had until 6pm on Monday to respond to the charge but actually wrote back to the governing body on Saturday.
A date for Guardiola's disciplinary hearing is yet to be arranged.
He ignored two warnings from the FA over the matter before being charged after City's surprise FA Cup defeat at Wigan a fortnight ago.
The regulations specifically cover the technical area during matches, meaning Guardiola is free to wear the ribbon for pre- and post-match media duties.
Since the charge was issued Guardiola has either covered up the ribbon during games or not worn it.
The yellow emblem worn by Guardiola during Sunday's Premier League win over Chelsea was the daffodil of the Marie Curie cancer charity.
The FA's stance on the matter differs from European governing body UEFA, who allows the ribbon to be worn. City also believe the symbol is not generally considered offensive.