Frank de Boer Criticizes Kyle Walker's Simulation in Manchester Derby
Frank de Boer has criticized Manchester City captain Kyle Walker for simulation during an altercation with Rasmus Hojlund in the Manchester derby, calling his actions 'embarrassing' and detrimental to football's integrity.
In the recent Manchester derby between Manchester City and Manchester United, a notable incident occurred involving City's captain, Kyle Walker, and United's forward, Rasmus Hojlund. Following City's goal by Josko Gvardiol, an altercation ensued during a United counter-attack. Walker and Hojlund clashed, leading to a confrontation where their foreheads met. Walker then fell to the ground, seemingly exaggerating the contact, aiming to provoke a red card for Hojlund. The referee, however, issued yellow cards to both players.
Former Dutch international Frank de Boer expressed strong disapproval of Walker's actions, stating, "If Walker watches this clip again, he should be ashamed. Who will take you seriously after this? It really makes me angry. Look, he's lying on the ground and doesn't get up. These actions are destroying football. Look at how they behave in rugby and then see this scene. It's embarrassing."
Additionally, former Premier League referee Mike Dean supported the decision to refrain from sending off Hojlund, noting, "There was no serious contact between the two players, and television footage clearly shows that Hojlund only made slight contact with Kyle Walker. There was no reason to send off the United player in this situation."