Manchester: Jose Mourinho has dismissed claims his Manchester United players were in the wrong during the chaotic post-match confrontation that overshadowed Sunday’s Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
England’s Football Association is investigating claims around 15 people were involved in a physical altercation after Mourinho complained about the volume of Manchester City’s dressing-room celebrations.
Mourinho had a carton of milk thrown at him before a melee ensued involving players and staff in which City coach Mikel Arteta was left with a cut below his eye after being hit by a plastic bottle.
Asked about reports the bottle that hit Arteta was thrown by United striker Romelu Lukaku, Mourinho said: “Accuse? Prove? Show evidence and punish him.”
City manager Pep Guardiola, whose side won the game 2-1, has also defended his players, although he has offered an apology to United.
Some City staff have claimed one of their physiotherapists was punched during the ruck, which took place in a corridor leading away from the tunnel, but United have denied their players threw punches.
Mourinho said he was certain his players had not done anything untoward.
“I know,” said the United manager. “I am not confident: I know.”
When a reporter asked Mourinho if he feared punishment over the brawl, he responded: “I think you work for another club and not for the press.”
Guardiola had earlier admitted he “encouraged” his players to celebrate, but denied their behaviour was provocative.
“We won a derby. If we offended United — not just one player, not just Jose, [but] Manchester United — then I apologise,” he said.
“Sometimes United made a lot of celebrations in the past over City. All the managers celebrate sometimes. We have to enjoy those moments.
“What happened in the locker room happened. Hopefully, it is never going to happen again.”
