Qudus SalihuIn a world of microscopic VAR checks and high-stakes title races, the 0-0 draw between Sunderland and Manchester City on New Year’s Day 2026 has provided the first viral controversy of the year. While the official scoreline read a stalemate, Sunderland fans have flooded social media to “call out” Pep Guardiola after worrying footage emerged of his behavior in the technical area during the final stages of the match.
The footage, captured by a fan behind the dugout at the Stadium of Light, appears to show Guardiola in a state of “manic agitation.” As City struggled to convert a staggering 2.25 xG, the manager was seen pacing with such intensity that many Wearside supporters labeled his demeanor as “unhinged” and “disrespectful” to the home side’s defensive efforts. At one point, Guardiola reportedly directed a heated tirade toward the fourth official, seemingly frustrated by what he perceived as time-wasting tactics from Régis Le Bris’s side.
Sunderland supporters have been quick to point out the irony. “When Pep wins, it’s all ‘Sunderland are a fantastic, physical team,'” one fan wrote on X. “But as soon as he realizes he can’t break us down, the mask slips. The footage shows he couldn’t handle the atmosphere.” The “worrying” aspect for City fans, however, isn’t the passion, but the body language. Guardiola appeared to be at his most volatile, a sign many believe points to the immense pressure of chasing Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who moved four points clear at the top following City’s slip-up.
In his post-match interview, Guardiola tried to maintain a positive front, praising his team’s second-half performance and the impact of the returning Rodri. However, the contrast between his calm words and the “frenzied” footage from the touchline has created a narrative of a manager on the brink.
For Sunderland, the draw preserves their ten-game unbeaten home run and keeps them firmly in the hunt for European football. For Guardiola, the trip to the North East has left him not just with a solitary point, but with a viral moment that suggests the “invincible” aura of Manchester City is starting to show visible cracks under the Wearside lights.
Rabiu Aminu
Mustapha Sheidu
Qudus Salihu
