The Football Association (FA) has defended the FA Cup ball following criticism from Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. Guardiola had previously complained about the ball after his team’s fifth-round win over Plymouth on Saturday, stating that it didn’t meet the standards of the balls used in the Premier League and Champions League, calling it “not proper.”
In response, an FA spokesperson explained that the ball in question, Mitre’s Ultimax Pro, used in the Emirates FA Cup and all other FA competitions, had passed all necessary FIFA testing. “All footballs in professional competitions must meet FIFA Quality Pro standards, and this ball meets all the required criteria,” the spokesperson said.
The FA added, “While we understand that preferences vary, we are confident that the ball performs well. Over 350 goals have been scored in this year’s FA Cup, showing its effectiveness and bringing excitement to the competition.”
Guardiola, however, stood by his criticism, saying, “The ball is not proper. I’m sorry. This has been an issue in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup for years. I know there are business deals in place, but the ball is just not good. You saw how many shots went over the post? Not just Erling Haaland’s – look at other games.” He further praised the balls used in the Champions League and Premier League, saying they were “exceptional,” unlike the FA Cup ball.
Guardiola’s comments echo earlier complaints this season, including Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s criticism of the Puma ball used in the Carabao Cup.
