Manchester City's manager Expresses Remorse Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Defeat to Newcastle

Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after an exchange with a TV crew member subsequent to the Citizens' 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.

When the match concluded, a visibly upset 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," Guardiola stated. "I'm humiliated, regretful, looking back. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the operator. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I'm far from perfect, errors happen."

"What is for sure, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. The reason why I support my squad is clear – based on my career 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."

When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies in December during our historic run? Never."

Exchange with Bruno

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 talk in the tunnel. We often meet and we get along well. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."

Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "No - as long as it's respectful as I do, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it throughout the match, he was involved. My God, he was involved."

Controversial Decisions

City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle against Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Next Big Match

He will manage of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, it means that every season we have been there," he commented.

City have 10 points from four matches of the league phase, and Leverkusen hold five.

Lisa Hayes
Lisa Hayes

A passionate writer and UK explorer, sharing personal experiences and insights on modern living and travel adventures.