Pep Guardiola Expresses Remorse Over Camera Operator Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after an exchange with a TV crew member subsequent to the Citizens' 2-1 defeat away to the Magpies this past weekend.
At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.
"I apologised," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, errors happen."
"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. The reason why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Manager's Take
City are third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points following their fourth loss this campaign. "Four defeats in twelve matches we have to improve a lot," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies in December during our historic run? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
Regarding his confrontation with GuimarĂŁes, the coach explained: "We have known Bruno a long time and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and I always have a good relationship. I enjoy it. I'm passionate, I love to talk and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "Not if you talk with respect like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
The team felt aggrieved 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 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 in the group, while Leverkusen have five.
