Manchester City's manager Expresses Regret Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Loss to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" following a confrontation with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's loss away to the Magpies this past weekend.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. I don’t like it. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. That's just me. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, errors happen."
"One thing is certain, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. Why I support my squad is clear – because from my experience to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, high nineties, or we fall short."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
The team sits in third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."
When questioned if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December during our historic run? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, the coach explained: "I've known him a long time and every time after the game, home or away, we converse. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I enjoy it. I'm passionate, I love to talk and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "No - as long as you talk with respect like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, very much so."
Debatable Calls
The team felt aggrieved that the officials did not award City a penalty for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, and doubted if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later show he was level.
Next Big Match
Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, showing we compete annually," he commented.
City have 10 points from four matches of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.
