Watch: Pep Guardiola slams 'low quality' footballs used in FA Cup

Manchester City's manager Pep Guardiola expressed concerns about the suitability of the FA Cup ball, manufactured by Mitre Sports, after the club's come-from-behind victory against Championship side Plymouth Argyle. Despite the win, highlighted by teenager Nico O’Reilly's brace, Guardiola emphasized the need for a ball that meets the desired standards and performance expectations.

Manchester city witnessed a total of 10 attempts that either flew over the bar or missed the target, with Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Rico Lewis among those who struggled to maintain control. 

Pep Guardiola slams low quality Footballs used in FA Cup

When pressed about whether he has actively pushed for a change in the ball, Guardiola stated that he has been advocating for this for many years.

"Normally the ball goes inside from these shots. It's difficult to control it, many years, many players and managers say about that. When you lose it you're complaining but the ball is not right. I’m sorry." Pep said.

"In many years it's happened in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, I know it's a business and they come to agreements." He added.

Pep Guardiola expressed his views on footballs, stating that while both the Champions League and Premier League balls are exceptional, he finds the FA Cup ball lacking in quality.

https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1896402005087924379

"I would not say it because I don’t want to be punished but it’s the truth. The Champions League ball is exceptional, the Premier League ball is exceptional, but this one is not good." Pep added.

Mitre describes their ball as having Hyperflow debossed grooves that provide remarkable flight consistency at all speeds. They also emphasize that this ball is FIFA-quality-approved.

Guardiola’s complaints echo those of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who sharply criticized the Puma ball used in the Carabao Cup after the semi-final loss to Newcastle in January. Arteta boldly claimed that the ball could have played a role in their defeat, citing its differences from the Nike balls utilized in the Premier League.

On a positive note for Guardiola and Manchester City, he confidently indicated that Rodri is likely to return to action in the Premier League before the season concludes.