Man City boss Pep Guardiola makes Mikel Arteta dig after late controversy against Tottenham which left Erling Haaland raging

City's players and staff were left fuming at referee Simon Hooper after he pulled play back for a free-kick instead of playing the advantage. The whistle was blown just as Jack Grealish was sent through on goal by Erling Haaland, denying City a chance to seal a late victory.

Asked about the late controversy by Sky Sports, Guardiola was reluctant to answer, saying: "Next question. I will not do a Mikel Arteta comment."

He continued: "It is hard when you review the image, the referee decides to blow the whistle after he has already said to play on. After the pass, the whistle, so I do not understand this action. It was a good game, that is the most important thing. It was a pity, same as the Liverpool game, I had the feeling that today that we made an incredible performance in all departments, against a really good team and manager and how they play. We created a lot of chances, we were aggressive, incredibly concentrated, and the feeling is that we still want to be there [at the top of the table]. It is a pity. Sometimes football is like life, you do not get what you deserve."

Guardiola referenced Arsenal coach Arteta's infamous rant against officials after his team's 1-0 loss to Newcastle in early-November. The Gunners boss felt Newcastle's winning goal should have been disallowed, saying: "Embarrassing what happened - how this goal stands, in the Premier League - this league we say is the best in the world. I've been 20 years in this country and now I feel ashamed. It's a disgrace and there's too much at stake here."

Guardiola later told BBC Match of the Day: "Sometimes I lose my mind about the referees, but here no. Always people can make mistakes. It surprised me for the fact that he went to whistle when Erling went down, after he stood back up and made the pass so the referee made the gesture to play on. But then when the ball goes to Jack, then the whistle. That makes you think [gasps and says 'argh']. If in the right moment when Erling went down he whistled then you say: 'Ok', but whistling after saying play on... I don't know. It was a good game, everyone enjoyed it. Spurs are so happy, we are less so. Next on to Villa Park for the next game and to go again."

While Guardiola refrained from airing his grievances over the decision, striker Haaland made his anger clear. He was visibly furious as he confronted the referee and posted a clip of the move on social media, writing "Wtf". The Norwegian also got into an argument with Tottenham's Giovani Lo Celso before he left the pitch.

City, who are now on a nine-game unbeaten run in all competitions, are in action again on Wednesday with a game against Aston Villa - although they will be missing two key players. Four days later, they will take on Luton Town.