One man in his 20s was also arrested on suspicion of police assault by Greater Manchester Police and all three remain in custody following Manchester City’s win at home to Burnley
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Guardiola gives verdict on Man City’s win over Burnley
Two teenage boys have been arrested over alleged homophobic comments made during Manchester City ‘s clash with Burnley on Saturday, authorities have confirmed.
Greater Manchester Police said the arrests were made following ‘separate incidents’ during the game which Pep Guardiola ‘s team won 2-0 thanks to goals from Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne.
No further details have been revealed, including the boys’ ages or clubs they were supporting at the Etihad Stadium.
GMP also confirmed that a third arrest in connection with the match – a man in his 20s – had taken place as a result of police assault.
All three men remain in custody and could now face possible football banning orders as well as criminal charges.
Chief Inspector Jamie Collins, the commander of the match, stated (via MEN ): “The majority of fans attending this afternoons match behaved in an exemplary manner and we thank those people.
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Image:
AFP via Getty Images)
“We work closely with Manchester City Football Club to promote good behaviour at matches and to identify anyone who commits a criminal offence.
“I want to send a clear message to anyone attending football matches intent on engaging in abusive and threatening behaviour that it will not be tolerated.
“GMP officers will take positive action against those using homophobic or racist language and that is what my officers have done at today’s fixture.”
He added: “As well as being arrested we will work with our football partners to ensure the strongest action is taken including banning those fans from attending future football matches.
“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of the fans, staff and players and we want fans to be able to enjoy matches without the experience being ruined by a small number of people.”
No specific details on the incidents have been outlined.
On the pitch, the Citizens’ display ensured they stay within touching distance of league leaders Chelsea and second-place Liverpool.
First goalscorer Bernardo shone once again, tapping in after Phil Foden forced a good save from Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope.
Post-match, manager Guardiola was full of praise for the Portugal international as he continued his recent impressive form.
“He is in incredibly good form alongside Rodri and both played so well the last four or five games,” said City boss.
“He is at the level of the second season when we won with 98 points and he was out of this world.
“He is at the same level now. He is so intuitive; he always gives us the extra ball that we need.
“Today he scored a goal, that’s important for him. The performance of Bernardo has been extraordinary again.”
Bernardo himself added via mancity.com : “It’s never easy to win right after everyone comes back but it’s a good win,” he said.
“I’m happy that I’m helping the team, happy with the momentum but it’s just the beginning, we’re still in October.
“We need to keep going, try to go top of the league, try to qualify for the next stage of the Champions League, it’s the beginning but we are doing well.”
Next up for Guardiola and co is a trip to Belgium on Tuesday, where they will face Club Brugge in their third Champions League group-stage match.
