Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Defeat to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" following an exchange with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's 2-1 defeat away to the Magpies this past weekend.
At full time, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. I don’t like it. 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."
"One thing is certain, I stand by my team and club, without a doubt. The reason why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we need near-perfect totals, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
The team sits in third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."
When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies last winter when we won the quadruple? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, 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 I always have a good relationship. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."
He wouldn't mind should a rival coach spoke to his players immediately after a game. "Not if you talk with respect like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he noted, mentioning the referee. "He was part of it throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, he was involved."
Debatable Calls
The team felt aggrieved that the officials denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Pictures published later show he was level.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage his century in Europe against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, showing we compete annually," he said.
City have 10 points after four games of the league phase, and Leverkusen hold five.
