Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Defeat to Newcastle
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" after an exchange with a TV crew member subsequent to the Citizens' loss at Newcastle this past weekend.
At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s 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. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."
"One thing is certain, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. The reason why I want to defend my team is no doubt – based on my career to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Manager's Take
City are third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," he conceded. "Technically, we can to win everything."
The manager was asked about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies last winter when we won the quadruple? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
Regarding his confrontation with the Newcastle player, the coach explained: "We have known Bruno for many years 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 addressed his squad immediately after a game. "No - as long as you talk with respect as I do, it's fine," he said, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. My God, very much so."
Debatable Calls
The team felt aggrieved that the officials did not award City a penalty on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, and doubted 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 versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, showing we compete annually," he commented.
City have 10 points after four games of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.
