“None of us believe it was right” – Manchester City defender “fuming” after Wydad AC decision | OneFootball

Rico Lewis has been left “fuming”, according to teammates, after referee Ramon Abatti issued a straight red card during the closing exchanges of the 2-0 win over Wydad AC.

Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku had put Manchester City into a strong position in the clash with the Moroccan side, who had threatened on various occasions throughout the contest but ultimately failed to beat Ederson.

With the game fading out and City looking to secure their three points and clean sheet, the contest would not conclude without controversy as Rico Lewis was handed a straight red card by referee Ramon Abatti for serious foul play.

The England international was contesting a loose ball and having cleanly won possession and clearing the danger in Manchester City’s defensive third, his boot would strike the face of the Wydad AC attacker.

Having brandished the red card much to the amazement of Lewis and some of his Manchester City teammates during the closing exchanges of the match, VAR would also confirm the decision and leave the young full-back with a one-match ban as a result.

Speaking to broadcasters after City’s opening group stage win against the Moroccan side, Pep Guardiola issued his own discontent at the on-field decision to dismiss Lewis for what many believe was a fair challenge.

“He got the ball, both feet on the grass. He [referee, Ramon Abatti] said, ‘No, the feet and leg was high’, but it’s on the grass! It’s natural,” said Guardiola.

The Manchester City manager continued, “Rico never had absolutely any intention, but it doesn’t matter, it is what it is.”

Fellow full-back and academy graduate Nico O’Reilly also issued his thoughts on the matter as he said after the game, “Rico is fuming with the [red card] decision, none of us believe it was right.

“I think he slid in first, then their player slid second. He’s tried to move his leg out of the way and accidentally caught him. I think it was the wrong decision.”

Rico Lewis will now miss Manchester City’s matchday two encounter in the FIFA Club World Cup group stage against Al Ain on Sunday evening, while the club are also not expected to appeal against the decision.

As such, Guardiola will have to make a selection change in defence and many would expect Matheus Nunes to come into right-back against Middle-East opposition, while it remains unknown as to whether City will recruit in the role during the remainder of the summer.