Manchester City's manager Voices Remorse Over Broadcast Crew Incident Following Defeat to Magpies
The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" after a confrontation with a camera operator in the wake of Manchester City's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.
At full time, 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 headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "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. 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 clear – based on my career to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, 98 points, or we fall short."
Team Standing and Guardiola's Assessment
The team sits in third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Four defeats in twelve matches means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."
When questioned if this meant the quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno for many years 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 passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players immediately after a game. "Not if 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, he was involved."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR denied a spot-kick 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 show he was level.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, showing we compete we have been there," he commented.
The club has ten points from four matches of the league phase, and Leverkusen hold five.
