Manchester City faced a setback with a 2-1 defeat against Newcastle United, missing the opportunity to close in on Arsenal at the top of the Premier League. Harvey Barnes scored twice in the second half,
sealing City's fate. Ruben Dias expressed frustration over the decision to allow Barnes' second goal, questioning the consistency of refereeing decisions.
Dias managed to equalise for City with his first Premier League goal since December 2021. However, Barnes quickly restored Newcastle's lead by capitalising on a goalmouth scramble. The goal stood after a lengthy VAR review, which examined potential offsides and a possible foul on City's goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma. City argued that Barnes had pushed Donnarumma.
Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku both had penalty claims dismissed in the first half. Dias was particularly upset about the winning goal, stating, "There's one in the first half with Phil, I feel like they were saying it was very clear. " He questioned how such contact with their goalkeeper could be allowed without consequence.
Dias further commented on the inconsistency of refereeing decisions: "Sometimes you allow it, sometimes you don't. Where's the rule? What can you actually do?" He noted that Donnarumma was pushed out of position without any repercussions. Dias added that he reviewed footage showing Barnes pushing their goalkeeper away from the goal.
Reflecting on past standards, Dias remarked that such actions would have been considered fouls previously. He acknowledged Newcastle's superior performance but stressed his concerns were not excuses for City's loss. "People are going to say I'm finding excuses but it's nothing like that," he said.
City's Struggles Under Guardiola
This defeat marked Manchester City's fourth loss in their first 12 Premier League matches this season. It is an unusual record for Pep Guardiola's team, as they have never experienced so many losses early in a league campaign under his management. Despite these challenges, City remains focused on improving their performance moving forward.
Defeat on the road. 2-1 @okx pic.twitter.com/PyrQG61Bsf
- Manchester City (@ManCity) November 22, 2025
As City navigates these challenges, they aim to address inconsistencies and improve their standing in upcoming matches. The team remains determined to overcome setbacks and compete strongly throughout the season.
