Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Camera Operator Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" following an exchange with a camera operator in the wake of the Citizens' loss away to the Magpies this past weekend.
When the match concluded, a visibly upset Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. I am who I am. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. Why I want to defend my team is no doubt – based on my career to clinch the title 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 following their fourth loss this campaign. "Four defeats in twelve matches means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
When questioned if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "I've known him a long time and post-match, home or away, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "Not if you talk with respect as I do, it’s not a problem," he noted, mentioning the referee. "He was part of it throughout the match, he was involved. My God, he was involved."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR did not award City a penalty for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Next Big Match
Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, showing we compete annually," he said.
City have 10 points from four matches of the league phase, and Leverkusen hold five.
