Guardiola admits FA charge over pro-Catalan yellow ribbon

Pep Guardiola has admitted a Football Association charge of “wearing a political message”.

The Manchester City manager has accepted that his wearing of a yellow ribbon on the touchline in recent months is a breach of the governing body’s kit and advertising regulations.

However, it is understood that Guardiola’s response is one of observing – rather than respecting – the rules of the country he is working in and has not apologised.

The 47-year-old has been wearing the ribbon in support of political leaders jailed following the Catalonia independence referendum last October, which was declared illegal by Spain.

The Catalan-born City boss, a former Barcelona manager and captain, has argued that the symbol is not political but he will now stop wearing it on the touchline.

Guardiola will make a written submission for a disciplinary hearing, a date for which is yet to be arranged.

Guardiola, who could face a fine, had until 6pm yesterday to respond to the charge but actually wrote back to the governing body on Saturday.

He ignored two warnings from the FA over the matter before being charged after City’s surprise FA Cup defeat at Wigan a fortnight ago.

City believe the symbol is not generally considered offensive.

Pep Guardiola faces a fine after admitting to FA charge.