Manchester City's manager Voices Remorse Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Loss to Newcastle
The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" following a confrontation with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's 2-1 defeat away to the Magpies this past weekend.
At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "I'm humiliated, regretful, when I see it. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I'm far from perfect, I make huge mistakes."
"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. The reason why I support my squad is no doubt – based on my career to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, 98 points, or we fall short."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
City are third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies last winter during our historic run? No."
Exchange with Bruno
Regarding his confrontation with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "I've known him for many years and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I enjoy it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach addressed his squad right after the final whistle. "No - as long as it's respectful like I always have done, it's fine," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it 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, and doubted if Guimarães was offside 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 versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, it means that every season annually," he said.
City have 10 points from four matches in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.