Manchester City's manager Voices Remorse Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Defeat to Magpies
The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" after a confrontation with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's loss away to the Magpies on Saturday.
At full time, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s 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. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"What is for sure, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. Why I want to defend my team is clear – based on my career to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, high nineties, otherwise we don’t win it."
Team Standing and Guardiola's Assessment
City are third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. "Four defeats in twelve matches we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Technically, we can still achieve all."
When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple in December during our historic run? No."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "I've known him a long time and every time after the game, home or away, we converse. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I love it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager addressed his squad immediately after a game. "No - as long as you talk with respect as I do, it’s not a problem," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved throughout the match, he was involved. Goodness, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle against Foden, and doubted if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Next Big Match
Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, it means that every season annually," he said.
The club has ten points after four games of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.