Manchester City's manager Expresses Remorse Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Defeat to Magpies
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" after a confrontation with a camera operator in the wake of Manchester City's loss at Newcastle on Saturday.
At full time, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with the referee, 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. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the operator. That's just me. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"What is for sure, I stand by my team and club, without a doubt. The reason why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Guardiola's Assessment
The team sits in third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points following their fourth loss this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Technically, we can still achieve all."
When questioned if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? No."
Exchange with Bruno
Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno for many years and post-match, even at the Etihad, we converse. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I love it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach spoke to his players immediately after a game. "No - as long as you talk with respect as I do, it's fine," he said, mentioning the referee. "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 did not award City a penalty on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Subsequent images show he was level.
Next Big Match
He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, showing we compete we have been there," he said.
City have 10 points from four matches in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.
