Story perspectives

Guardiola's Touchline Ban: Lijnders to Lead City

3/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pep Guardiola will miss Manchester City's FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool after a two-match touchline ban.
Former assistant Pep Lijnders will manage Manchester City in Guardiola's absence.
Guardiola will still attend the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal and the Champions League last-16 against Real Madrid.
Several players from Manchester City and Real Madrid face potential suspensions due to yellow cards ahead of their clash.

History

Historical Context

In 2023, Pep Guardiola received a two-match touchline ban, echoing a similar sanction from 2011 when he was banned while coaching FC Barcelona. That season, Barcelona won 73% of their matches, illustrating the significant influence of coaching on performance. Guardiola's absence from key matches against Liverpool and Real Madrid highlights the ongoing scrutiny of managerial conduct in football, reflecting evolving disciplinary measures aimed at ensuring fairness.

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Story summary

Pep Guardiola will miss Manchester City's FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool after a two-match touchline ban.
Former assistant Pep Lijnders will manage Manchester City in Guardiola's absence.
Guardiola will still attend the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal and the Champions League last-16 against Real Madrid.
Several players from Manchester City and Real Madrid face potential suspensions due to yellow cards ahead of their clash.

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