Pep Guardiola Expresses Remorse Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Loss to Magpies
The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" after a confrontation with a TV crew member in the wake of the Citizens' loss at Newcastle on Saturday.
When the match concluded, a visibly upset Guardiola stepped onto the field 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," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the operator. I am who I am. With a thousand matches under my belt I'm far from perfect, I make huge mistakes."
"What is for sure, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. Why I support my squad is clear – based on my career to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, 98 points, 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 of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Technically, we can still achieve all."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies last winter when we won the quadruple? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "I've known him for many years and post-match, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and we get along well. I enjoy it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager 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 for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, constantly. My God, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
The team felt aggrieved that Barrott or the VAR did not award City a penalty 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 indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, it means that every season we have been there," he commented.
City have 10 points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.
