By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Pep Guardiola has urged empathy and respect in public discourse after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s controversial comments on immigration sparked widespread backlash across English football and beyond.
Speaking ahead of **FA Cup** action, the **Manchester City** manager addressed the issue directly, emphasising that immigrants should not be treated as a societal problem and that embracing different cultures strengthens communities. His remarks came after Ratcliffe, co-owner of **Manchester United**, faced criticism for suggesting Britain had been “colonised by immigrants,” comments he later apologised for.
Guardiola acknowledged Ratcliffe’s apology and said he holds personal respect for him, but stressed that the broader issue of how immigrants are treated globally remains concerning. “We have a big, big problem with how we treat people who come from other countries,” he said, adding that birthplace or background should never define a person’s opportunities or worth.
The City boss, who has lived and worked in multiple countries throughout his coaching career, highlighted his own experience as proof of the benefits of multiculturalism. He argued that societies improve when they open themselves to diversity rather than resist it.
Ratcliffe’s original remarks drew political and social criticism, prompting responses from fan groups and anti-discrimination advocates. United moved quickly to underline the club’s commitment to inclusivity, while the **The Football Association** is reportedly reviewing whether any further action is warranted.
Guardiola’s intervention adds a prominent voice from the Premier League to an increasingly heated national debate, reinforcing football’s role as a platform for wider social conversations beyond the pitch.
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