Manchester City's manager Voices Remorse Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Loss to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after a confrontation with a TV crew member subsequent to Manchester City's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.
At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. I am who I am. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. Why I want to defend my team is no doubt – based on my career to clinch the title we need near-perfect totals, high nineties, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Guardiola's Assessment
The team sits in third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."
When questioned if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, the coach explained: "I've known him a long time and every time after the game, home or away, we converse. We often meet and we get along well. I enjoy it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."
He wouldn't mind should a rival coach 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 said, mentioning the referee. "He was part of it throughout the match, 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 Bruno's positioning when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Subsequent images show he was level.
Upcoming Milestone
Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, showing we compete annually," he commented.
City have 10 points after four games of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.
