Pep Guardiola Expresses Remorse Over Camera Operator Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" after an exchange with a camera operator in the wake of the Citizens' loss at Newcastle this past weekend.
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 headphones of the camera operator.
"I apologised," Guardiola stated. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. I don’t like it. 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. The reason 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, 98 points, or we fall short."
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 to win everything."
When questioned about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies in December when we won the quadruple? No."
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, home or away, we converse. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager addressed his squad immediately after a game. "No - as long as you talk with respect as I do, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it throughout the match, constantly. My God, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
The team felt aggrieved that Barrott or the VAR denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Subsequent images show he was level.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage 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.
