Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Broadcast Crew Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after a confrontation with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle on Saturday.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola entered the St Jamesâ Park pitch and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno GuimarĂŁes, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "I'm humiliated, regretful, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. That's just me. After 1,000 games I'm far from perfect, I make huge mistakes."
"What is for sure, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. Why I want to defend my team is no doubt â based on my career to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, 98 points, or we fall short."
City's Position and Manager's Take
City are third and are seven behind the Gunners following their fourth loss of the season. "Four defeats in twelve matches means we must do better," he conceded. "Mathematically, itâs possible still achieve all."
When questioned about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me about the quadruple last winter during our historic run? No."
Interaction with GuimarĂŁes
On the subject of his talk 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 talk in the tunnel. We often meet and we get along well. I enjoy it. Iâm an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach spoke to his players immediately after a game. "Not if it's respectful as I do, itâs not a problem," he said, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, he was involved."
Debatable Calls
The team felt aggrieved that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, and doubted if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Next Big Match
He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, showing we compete we have been there," he said.
City have 10 points after four games of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.