AFCON 2025: Pep Guardiola reacts to CAF's verdict on Senegal vs Morocco

Guardiola Questions CAF Decision as Man City Prepare for Arsenal Showdown

Pep Guardiola has publicly expressed disbelief over the Confederation of African Football’s (Confederation of African Football) controversial ruling on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, just days before Manchester City face Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final.

Guardiola Reacts to AFCON Verdict

Speaking in a pre-match press conference, Guardiola addressed CAF’s decision to strip Senegal of their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 title and award it to Morocco. The ruling followed a successful protest by the Moroccan Football Federation, with CAF determining that Senegal had forfeited the final under unclear circumstances.

Guardiola did not hide his confusion over the lack of transparency surrounding the decision.

“I don’t know the reason… but it’s a decision made behind the scenes,” he said, in comments reported by Fabrizio Romano. “What happens everywhere is what we see—it’s not happened. It always happens behind the scenes and you don’t see their faces.”

His remarks reflect a growing concern within global football circles about the opacity of disciplinary processes in major international competitions.

Focus Shifts to Carabao Cup Final

Despite the controversy dominating headlines, Guardiola remains focused on domestic duties as Manchester City prepare to face Arsenal in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final at Wembley.

The City boss confirmed that goalkeeper James Trafford will start in goal for the crucial fixture, a decision that may raise eyebrows given squad dynamics.

Guardiola, however, dismissed any potential unrest within the team.

“James Trafford will start. His comments? No problem. Players can be happy, unhappy. It is what it is. Be here, do the best he can do, and after we’ll see what happens at the end of the season.”

Pressure Builds on CAF

As Manchester City chase their first trophy of the season, the fallout from CAF’s ruling continues to spark debate across the football world. Guardiola’s comments add significant weight to the growing calls for clarity and accountability from African football’s governing body.

With questions still unanswered, the AFCON controversy remains a major talking point one that extends far beyond the pitch.