Manuel Pellegrini backs Manchester City fans over Champions League anthem boos

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has sided with the club's supporters over their continued booing of the Champions League anthem.

City could be charged by UEFA after fans loudly booed over the pre-match anthem before Wednesday night's Group D contest at home to Sevilla.

City supporters started to boo the competition's tune last year after being hit by Financial Fair Play sanctions and then ill feeling increased when a match against CSKA Moscow last October was ordered to be played behind closed doors after fans had booked travel and accommodation.

Disruption of national or competition anthems is deemed "inappropriate behaviour" under article 16 of UEFA's regulations, but Pellegrini does not believe that the fans were at fault.

"I think that everyone has the right to express what they feel, with order, with respect," Pellegrini told reporters today.

"I don't know why UEFA thinks this about our fans, but I think it's exactly the same for the manager, or the players or the referee. They pay for their ticket and with respect they can express what they feel."

The issue will be dealt with by UEFA's disciplinary committee on November 19.