Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Defeat to Magpies
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" following an exchange with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's loss away to the Magpies on Saturday.
When the match concluded, a visibly upset Guardiola stepped onto the field and engaged in intense talks with the referee, Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "I'm humiliated, regretful, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"What is for sure, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. The reason why I support my squad is clear – because from my experience to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, 98 points, or we fall short."
City's Position and Manager's Take
The team sits in third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Technically, we can still achieve all."
When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple in December during our historic run? No."
Interaction with Guimarães
Regarding his confrontation with the Newcastle player, the coach explained: "We have known Bruno for many years and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we converse. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach spoke to his players immediately after a game. "No - as long as it's respectful as I do, it’s not a problem," he noted, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. My God, very much so."
Debatable Calls
The team felt aggrieved 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. Subsequent images show he was level.
Next Big Match
He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen this week. "It’s quite good, it means that every season annually," he commented.
City have 10 points from four matches of the league phase, and Leverkusen hold five.
