Manchester City players and staff were incensed when Phil Foden was denied a penalty in the 17th minute of their match against Newcastle, despite appearing to be fouled by Fabian Schar. Foden took a shot that went wide, and as he did so, Schar attempted a last-ditch tackle, making contact with Foden's left foot after the ball had been played.
Foden fell to the ground holding his foot, prompting appeals for a penalty from his teammates. The incident was reviewed by VAR, but the on-field decision not to award a penalty was upheld.
Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards suggested that the challenge might not have been penalized because Foden had already released the ball. Social media users expressed disbelief and frustration, with many labeling the challenge a clear penalty, regardless of whether the shot had been taken.
They argued that such contact would be considered a foul and likely result in a booking in other areas of the pitch. Newcastle ultimately won the match 2-1, with Harvey Barnes scoring twice for the Magpies.
Ruben Dias had equalized for Manchester City between Barnes' goals. The late winning goal for Newcastle also underwent a lengthy VAR review for a potential offside in the build-up.
