Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola explains why he wears yellow ribbon after Jose Mourinho criticism

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Pep Guardiola defended his public support of Catalonian independence following Manchester City's derby win on Sunday, days after Jose Mourinho questioned whether managers should be allowed to make such political statements.

Guardiola has worn a yellow ribbon recently in a show of support for Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart, two members of the Catalonian government who were imprisoned in October following the region's referendum on independence.

On Friday, Mourinho, the Manchester United manager, drew attention to Guardiola's gesture and claimed he would not be allowed to do the same. After City's 2-1 win at Old Trafford, Guardiola was asked about Mourinho's criticism and responded defiantly.

“I understand. I do that because in Spain two specific people who defend something bold are in prison. It is unfair,” he said.

“To rebel like that, you have to be something tough to be in prison, and they are still there. Until they are out, always they will be with me. They can suspend me for that but the other people are in jail.”

Guardiola added: “Jordi Cuixart and Jordi Sanchez are in prison for more than 60 days without their families.

“They want to suspend me, Uefa, the Premier League, Fifa, it's OK. I will be suspended.”

Under Premier League rules and in accordance with rules set by world football's governing body Fifa, players are prohibited from displaying political slogans, statements or images.

However, there is no rule referring to whether managers wear an item of clothing or accessory which displays support for a political cause.