Pep Guardiola Slams Dean Henderson’s “Timewasting Tactics” After FA Cup Final Shock

Pep Guardiola has congratulated Crystal Palace and goalkeeper Dean Henderson after Manchester City’s shock FA Cup final defeat — but couldn’t hide his frustration over the tactics that ultimately broke down his side’s rhythm and momentum.

City were left stunned at Wembley after Eberechi Eze’s early goal sealed a 1-0 win for Palace and booked their name in the history books. But while Guardiola stayed calm in public, the post-match scenes told a different story — with the City boss seen exchanging words with Henderson at full-time.

Henderson, who played a pivotal role in Palace’s triumph, was at the centre of a major controversy in the 23rd minute when he rushed out and handled the ball outside of his area to stop Erling Haaland from getting through on goal. Despite replays showing clear contact outside the box, VAR ruled that Haaland was moving away from goal, and the incident did not meet the threshold for a red card. Most fans — and pundits — strongly disagreed.

Asked directly about the moment after the game, Guardiola stuck to his usual stance. “He defended his position, we defend our position,” the City boss said. “It’s English football. Everyone can do whatever they want.”

Instead of venting about the controversial VAR decision, Guardiola turned his attention to what he saw as repeated timewasting from Henderson, particularly in the second half as City chased an equaliser. “It’s a question of rhythm,” he explained. “All the fans are there to let 22 players play. But we didn’t have the rhythm.”

City pushed hard in the final minutes — which saw nine added minutes — but couldn’t break down a disciplined Palace defence, led by the impressive Henderson, who also saved a penalty from Omar Marmoush.

Guardiola admitted his team should have done more to turn the tide. “We have to score goals. We didn’t lose because Henderson did that,” he said. “Congratulations to Henderson and Palace because they defended really well and we were not able to score a goal.”

Despite nine years of managing in England and winning countless trophies, Guardiola still struggles with the way some teams set up against his City side. “I try to play the game that the people deserve to watch,” he said. “When Barcelona play, they attack and the other team attacks and it’s beautiful.”

But on this occasion, the only beauty came in the eyes of Palace fans — and in the gloves of Dean Henderson.