Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Broadcast Crew Incident Following Loss to Magpies
Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" after an exchange with a TV crew member subsequent to Manchester City's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle on Saturday.
At full time, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. That's just me. After 1,000 games I'm far from perfect, I make huge mistakes."
"One thing is certain, 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, or we fall short."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
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 still achieve all."
When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, he responded: "You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk discuss four trophies in December when we won the quadruple? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, the coach explained: "I've known him a long time and every time after the game, home or away, we talk in the tunnel. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I enjoy it. I'm passionate, I love to talk and move my hands."
He wouldn't mind should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "No - as long as it's respectful as I do, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved throughout the match, he was involved. My God, he was involved."
Controversial Decisions
The team felt aggrieved that Barrott or the VAR did not award City a penalty for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Next Big Match
He will manage his century in Europe against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, showing we compete annually," he commented.
City have 10 points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.