Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Camera Operator Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" following a confrontation with a camera operator in the wake of Manchester City's 2-1 defeat 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 Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the operator. I am who I am. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, errors happen."
"One thing is certain, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. Why I want to defend my team is no doubt – based on my career to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, high nineties, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Guardiola's Assessment
City are third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points following their fourth loss of the season. "Four defeats in twelve matches means we must do better," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
When questioned about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk about the quadruple last winter during our historic run? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "I've known him a long time and post-match, home or away, we talk in the tunnel. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I enjoy it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "No - as long as you talk with respect as I do, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, he was involved."
Debatable Calls
City were unhappy that the officials denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, and doubted Bruno's positioning when Harvey Barnes scored Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Subsequent images show he was level.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, showing we compete we have been there," he said.
City have 10 points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.
