Ex-PGMOL chief stunned by Samuel Barrott as Tijjani Reijnders controversy 'overlooked' vs Newcastle

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Credit: Imago / TNT Sports Ex-PGMOL chief stunned by Samuel Barrott as Tijjani Reijnders controversy ‘overlooked’ vs Newcastle Mon 9 March 2026 11:30, UK Updated Mon 9 March 2026 14:38, UK Samuel Barrott should have pointed to the penalty spot after a challenge on Manchester City‘s Tijjani Reijnders against Newcastle United.That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that the Citizens should have been awarded a spot-kick inside two minutes on Saturday, 7 March.Instead, Harvey Barnes opened the scoring at St James’ Park. However, thanks to goals from Savinho and Marmoush, Pep Guardiola’s side overcame their opponents despite the early controversy.Man City are in the FA Cup quarter-finals, but Barrott and VAR could have made life much easier for the visitors had they been given a penalty in the opening moments. ⚽ Man City Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, tactical previews and expert breakdowns for every Manchester City fixture.

VAR’s dilemma is whether it’s a clear and obvious error. (Credit Imago)“Had he done so, I don’t think he’d have been left with any other option but to award a penalty.

However you look at it, it’s a foul. It’s been overlooked.” Which games will Pep Guardiola miss after new suspension?Guardiola was absolutely furious with some of the refereeing decisions at St James’ Park, with the Man City boss making his feelings very clear on the sidelines.Due to his protestations, especially after a foul was not called on Jeremy Doku, he was swiftly shown a yellow card, which turned out to be his sixth of the 2025-26 campaign.With it being his sixth, Guardiola is now set to miss two matches, being forced to watch from the stands against West Ham in the Premier League and whoever City draw in the next round of the FA Cup.He will be present, however, for Man City’s trip to Arsenal in the Carabao Cup, which will be a huge moment in the season, given how the Gunners are playing right now.