Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Defeat to Magpies
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" following a confrontation with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the operator. That's just me. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"What is for sure, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. The reason why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Manager's Take
City are third and are seven behind the Gunners following their fourth loss of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk discuss four trophies last winter when we won the quadruple? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "I've known him a long time and post-match, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and we get along well. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "Not if it's respectful like I always have done, it's fine," he noted, mentioning the referee. "He was part of it throughout the match, constantly. My God, very much so."
Debatable Calls
City were unhappy that the officials did not award City a penalty for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, and doubted if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Pictures published later show he was level.
Next Big Match
Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, it means that every season annually," he commented.
City have 10 points after four games in the group, while Leverkusen have five.
