An unusual moment involving Pep Guardiola on the touchline took centre stage during Manchester City's Premier League clash against Arsenal on Sunday - just before his side conceded a dramatic late equaliser.

The City manager was seen grabbing the face of fourth official Craig Pawson and leaning in for what appeared to be a kiss on the cheek.

The interaction, caught by television cameras, was brief but instantly spread across social media, leaving fans and commentators puzzled by Guardiola's spontaneous gesture.

Pawson seemed slightly taken aback by the contact, though the exchange remained light in nature. Still, the timing and nature of the moment added a bizarre twist to what had been a tense and closely fought contest between two title rivals.

Martinelli's stoppage-time finish stuns City after early Haaland opener

Moments after the unusual touchline incident, City's slim lead evaporated.

Pep Guardiola kissing the 4th officialpic.twitter.com/6hn07VIPVP

— Total Football (@TotalFootbol) September 21, 2025

Having gone ahead in the 9th minute through a clinical Erling Haaland finish on the break, Guardiola's side appeared to be managing the game well into the final stages. But the introduction of Gabriel Martinelli and Eberechi Eze in the second half changed the tempo for Arsenal.

In the 93rd minute, Eze's precise through ball found Martinelli, who calmly chipped the ball over the onrushing Gianluigi Donnarumma, salvaging a point for the hosts in dramatic fashion. It was a goal that sparked wild celebrations at the Emirates and left City frustrated after holding the lead for most of the match.

Guardiola's side had attempted to shut the game down by switching to a back five late on, but were ultimately undone by a well-timed attack and a composed finish.

The result extends Mikel Arteta's unbeaten streak against his former mentor to five matches across all competitions. It also allowed Arsenal to reclaim second place in the table, while City - now with just seven points from their first five games - have dropped to ninth.

With Liverpool sitting five points clear at the top, both Arsenal and City will need to find consistency quickly.

But while the football took most of the headlines, Guardiola's strange moment with the official is likely to remain one of the most talked-about images from the match.