Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Camera Operator Incident Following Loss to Magpies
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" following a confrontation with a camera operator in the wake of Manchester City's 2-1 defeat away to the Magpies on Saturday.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I apologised," Guardiola stated. "I'm humiliated, regretful, looking back. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the operator. That's just me. After 1,000 games I'm far from perfect, I make huge mistakes."
"One thing is certain, I stand by my team and club, without a doubt. The reason why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we need near-perfect totals, 98 points, or we fall short."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
City are third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Technically, we can to win everything."
When questioned if this meant the quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk discuss four trophies in December during our historic run? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
Regarding his confrontation with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno for many years 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 love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and move my hands."
He wouldn't mind should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "Not if it's respectful as I do, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
The team felt aggrieved that the officials denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle against Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, showing we compete we have been there," he commented.
City have 10 points from four matches of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.