Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Broadcast Crew Incident Following Loss to Magpies
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after a confrontation with a camera operator in the wake of 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 engaged in intense talks with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I'm humiliated, regretful, looking back. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the operator. That's just me. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"One thing is certain, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. Why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, high nineties, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Guardiola's Assessment
City are third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points 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."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple last winter during our historic run? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, the coach explained: "We have known Bruno for many years and post-match, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I'm passionate, I love to talk and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players immediately after a game. "No - as long as you talk with respect like I always have done, it's fine," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved throughout the match, he was involved. My God, very much so."
Debatable Calls
City were unhappy that the officials did not award City a penalty on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, and doubted Bruno's positioning when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, showing we compete annually," he said.
The club has ten points from four matches in the group, while Leverkusen have five.
