Before the match between the two title rivals, a minute of silence was to be observed in memory of the 97 Liverpool fans who lost their lives as a result of the Hillsborough accident in 1989.
Some City fans interrupted the silence by singing, which led to a buoy from Liverpool fans. Now Manchester City apologize for the incident and condemn those who interrupted the memorial service.
– Manchester City are extremely disappointed with the actions of some City supporters during the selection before today’s match. The club strongly apologizes to everyone associated with Liverpool FC, it is said in a press release from Manchester City.
Liverpool ended up winning the match 3-2 and advanced to the final of the FA Cup. After the match, both Jürgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola were asked about the situation.
– It felt very wrong, said Liverpool manager Klopp, who accepted the apology from Manchester City.
Guardiola stands behind the statement of his own club.
– We stand side by side with Liverpool. Those who sang do not represent what we stand for, Guardiola said.