Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Camera Operator Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
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 on Saturday.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I'm humiliated, regretful, when I see it. It's not acceptable. 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."
"What is for sure, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. The reason why I support my squad is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we need near-perfect totals, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
The team sits in 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," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."
When questioned if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk discuss four trophies last winter during our historic run? No."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "I've known him for many years and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we converse. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I enjoy it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "Not if you talk with respect as I do, it's fine," he said, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR did not award City a penalty on a Schär tackle against Foden, and doubted Bruno's positioning when Harvey Barnes scored Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen this week. "It’s quite good, it means that every season annually," he said.
City have 10 points after four games of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.
