Pep Guardiola Voices Remorse Over Broadcast Crew Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after an exchange with a TV crew member subsequent to Manchester City's 2-1 defeat at Newcastle on Saturday.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and had heated discussions with the referee, 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, looking back. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the operator. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, errors happen."
"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. Why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, 98 points, or we fall short."
City's Position and Guardiola's Assessment
City are third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points following their fourth loss of the season. "Four defeats in twelve matches we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple could be achieved, he responded: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies last winter during our historic run? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno for many years and every time after the game, home or away, we converse. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "Not if it's respectful like I always have done, it's fine," he said, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved throughout the match, constantly. My God, he was involved."
Controversial Decisions
The team felt aggrieved that Barrott or the VAR did not award City a penalty for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning when Harvey Barnes scored Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen this week. "It’s quite good, it means that every season we have been there," he said.
City have 10 points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.
