Manchester City's manager Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Loss to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" following an exchange with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle on Saturday.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field 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," the manager remarked. "I'm humiliated, regretful, when I see it. I don’t like it. I apologised after one second 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 defend any team and my club, without a doubt. The reason why I support my squad is clear – 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 Guardiola's Assessment
City are third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies in December when we won the quadruple? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "I've known him 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 love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk 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 fine," he said, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved throughout the match, constantly. My God, he was involved."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR 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. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Next Big Match
Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, it means that every season annually," he said.
The club has ten points after four games of the league phase, and Leverkusen hold five.
