Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Loss to Magpies
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after an exchange with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's loss away to the Magpies on Saturday.
At full time, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized 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, 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."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
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 to win everything."
The manager was asked about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple in December during our historic run? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, the coach explained: "I've known him a long time and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I love it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."
He wouldn't mind should a rival coach addressed his squad right after the final whistle. "No - as long as you talk with respect like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. Goodness, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
The team felt aggrieved that Barrott or the VAR denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, and doubted if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Subsequent images show he was level.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen this week. "It’s quite good, it means that every season annually," he said.
The club has ten points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.
