Pep Guardiola facilitated the mood on the touchline during the 1-1 draw in Manchester City with Arsenal in the Emirates stage and shared an unusual moment with the fourth official Craig Pawson.
City had led Haaland’s ninth minute strike an early lead and looked on the course after the victory before the Gunners suggested late.
In the final phase, Guardiola was on the edge in a lively exchange with Pawson.
Instead of allowing the statements to be allowed, the city boss suddenly leaned forward and planted a kiss on Pawson’s cheek. The officer currently resigned, but with a smile before he picked up his duties, while Guardiola giggled with his hands on his hips – both clearly saw the funny side.
Pep Guardiola just kissed the fourth official and he added an additional time for 7 minutes ðŸ˜ðŸ˜ibility#Arsmcipic.twitter.com/ouever8p8r
– Austine ✪ (@ausinooffical) September 21, 2025
However, Guardiolas Grinsen did not take long. Moments later after Pawson signaled seven minutes of injury time, the city conceded deeply into added time. Gabriel Martinelli saved a point for Arsenal, who opened Gianluigi Donnarumma to cancel Haaland’s start.
The result means that Arsenal remains unbeaten in the last five meetings of the Premier League with City.
After the game, Guardiola spoke to Sky Sports and praised his team’s resilience.
“Today we played against a powerful team,” he said. “Hats in front of our team for resistance. It is so difficult if you are not effective with high presses, it is always difficult to build. We have made some transitions. I think the result is fair. In general, arsenal is better.”
No mention of the kiss. Poor Craig Pawson.
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