Pellegrini Says Referee Prevented Manchester City Win At Arsenal

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has heavily criticized referee Mark Clattenburg during his press conference following their 2-2 draw against Arsenal, claiming both Gunners goals shouldn't have counted.

City secured a point at the Emirates Stadium after a late header by centre-back Martin Demichelis.

However, even though Pellegrini was happy to secure a point at such a difficult stadium, he has blamed the referee for preventing City to take the victory.

"The referee had a bad day today in the same way he had a very bad day against Liverpool last year," Pellegrini said. "It is a good point when they have scored two illegal goals."

Clattenburg was the referee when City lost in controversial circumstances against Liverpool last season.

He added: "I am really satisfied with a point – it is always very different to play here against Arsenal."

Sergio Agüero scored the opener for Manuel Pellegrini's side in the first half, following a good assist from Jesus Navas. But Jack Wilshere and new signing Alexis Sanchez overcame the result and took the lead until Demichelis' late equaliser.

"For the first there was a foul on Aguero by Wilshere. For the second, there was a foul, a clear push on Kompany from Welbeck in the box."

"We finished with a clear penalty, the ball twice hitting the hand of Wilshere in front of the linesman."

The City boss even claimed he withdrew forward Agüero as he believed the referee was going to send him off due to his frustration.

"Sergio was very angry, he was right to be."

When questioned whether he rated Clattenburg as a referee, Pellegrini stated: "I don't have a problem [with Clattenburg], he had a very bad day today."