Pep Guardiola has criticized a group of Manchester United fans for showing a "lack of class" after they directed offensive chants at Manchester City’s Phil Foden during Sunday's 0-0 draw at Old Trafford.

Foden, 24, who had a quiet performance, was substituted by City manager Guardiola in the second half. The England midfielder, who grew up supporting City in Stockport, was one of just two local players in the match, alongside City’s Nico O'Reilly.

Despite his local connection, Foden endured derogatory chants from the United fans, to which he responded by giving them a thumbs-up. Guardiola expressed disappointment, suggesting that the behavior of these fans reflected troubling trends in today’s society.

"Lack of class," Guardiola said when asked about the chants aimed at Foden. "But it's not United, it's the people, you know?

"We are so exposed in the screen in world football -- managers, owners, and football players especially. Honestly, I don't understand the mind of the people involving the mum of Phil. It's a lack of integrity, class, and they should be ashamed."

Manchester City's draw in the game means they remain in fifth place in the Premier League, holding onto the final Champions League spot, just one point ahead of Aston Villa. Villa will visit the Etihad on April 22.

Newcastle, currently in seventh place, are only two points behind City, having played two fewer games. If they win their upcoming match against struggling Leicester City, they could move ahead of City into the fifth spot.

Despite the pressure of potentially missing out on the Champions League, Guardiola stated that he is not worried about the team's chances of qualifying.

"Nothing," Guardiola said when asked his thoughts about finishing in the top five. "All that is important is our next game, against Crystal Palace.

"We will prepare for the upcoming games. There are a few things I'm happy with what I saw, but now we need to achieve the target of qualifying for Champions League, then next season is next season."