Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Broadcast Crew Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" following a confrontation with a camera operator in the wake of Manchester City's loss at Newcastle on Saturday.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. I am who I am. 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. The reason 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."
Team Standing 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 we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
When questioned about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December during our historic run? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, the coach explained: "I've known him a long time and post-match, home or away, we converse. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and gesticulate."
He wouldn't mind if an opposition manager addressed his squad immediately after a game. "No - as long as it's respectful like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, constantly. Goodness, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, it means that every season we have been there," he commented.
The club has ten points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.
