'My English is good...' - Pep Guardiola backs the referees before important Champions League clash

Pep Guardiola addressed the recent controversy surrounding Jude Bellingham's red card, urging Champions League rivals Real Madrid to allow referees to carry out their duties without interference. Bellingham found himself at the centre of attention after being sent off by referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero for using foul and abusive language toward Osasuna during the weekend's match.

The Spanish referee charged the former Dortmund star with directing a 'f*** you' at him during an outburst of frustration. However, Bellingham firmly maintains that he actually said 'f*** off.' The 21-year-old insists that his choice of words was directed at himself out of frustration, not at the referee.

Pep Guardiola's take on the Referees 

The hierarchy at Madrid is reportedly expressing concerns over perceived biases among officials and has engaged in discussions with LaLiga's refereeing council (CTA), according to reports from Spain.

As the Galacticos prepare for their Champions League play-off second leg against Manchester City, Guardiola emphasized on the importance of how Bellingham conveyed his thoughts.

City heads to the Bernabéu on Wednesday, needing to overcome a one-goal deficit from the first leg to secure their place in the round of 16. Despite the controversy surrounding Bellingham's red card, Guardiola feels it is unnecessary to remind his players to show respect to Kovacs and his officiating team while in Madrid.

"My English is good, but I don't understand the difference between f*** off and f*** you', but what's important is the intention, not the insult. The best thing is not to do it and leave the referees in peace. There have always been decisions. You should ask Jude what his intention was. That's what matters," Pep said.

Manchester City had consistently reached at least the last 16 of the Champions League since the 2012-13 season when they were eliminated in the group stage. In the last six seasons, Guardiola's team has faced Real Madrid five times, securing victory at the Bernabeu in only one of those matchups.