Manchester City's manager Voices Regret Over Camera Operator Incident Following Loss to Magpies
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" after an exchange with a camera operator in the wake of Manchester City's 2-1 defeat away to the Magpies on Saturday.
At full time, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the operator. That's just me. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"What is for sure, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. The reason why I support my squad is clear – because from my experience to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, high nineties, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Manager's Take
The team sits in third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," 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, did you hear my talk discuss four trophies last winter during our historic run? No."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, the coach explained: "We have known Bruno a long time and every time after the game, home or away, we converse. We often meet and I always have a good relationship. I enjoy it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager addressed his squad right after the final whistle. "No - as long as it's respectful like I always have done, it's fine," he said, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved throughout the match, he was involved. Goodness, he was involved."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that the officials denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, and doubted if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Subsequent images show he was level.
Upcoming Milestone
Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, showing we compete annually," he commented.
The club has ten points after four games in the group, while Leverkusen have five.