Former Manchester City defender Mike Richards has taken aim at Bruno Fernandes following the Portuguese midfielder's controversial reaction to Phil Foden's dismissal during the Manchester derby. Foden was sent off for a reckless challenge in the 23rd minute, with City ultimately clinching a 1-0 victory.
The incident unfolded after Fernandes caught Foden’s leg, to which the City star responded with a retaliatory strike. Referee Michael Oliver opted to send Foden off, but Fernandes’ response sparked debate among the pundits on Sky Sports.
Richards did not hold back in his criticism:
And what about Bruno Fernandes’ reaction? It’s a disgrace!
Meanwhile, Gary Neville provided his perspective on the referee's decision, while acknowledging the contentious nature of the situation:
We all get what happened here. We've all been in situations where the initial aggressor ends up being punished because a response was provoked. I played for 15-20 years, and we always said in the changing room: if you get hit in the box, go down and win the penalty. Players do try to get their opponents sent off.
I’m not saying it's right, but it happens in football. We may not like it.
However, Roy Keane disagreed with Neville’s view:
I don’t believe we were ever trying to get opponents sent off. I disagree with that. You might seek to get a favourable decision from the referee, but aiming for a red for another player just doesn’t happen.
Despite being a man down, Manchester City secured victory thanks to Erling Haaland's goal in the 60th minute, maintaining their perfect record after four Premier League matches.
