Manchester City's manager Voices Remorse Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Loss to Magpies
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" after an exchange with a camera operator in the wake of the Citizens' 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.
At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and engaged in intense talks with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s 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 apologised after one second to the operator. 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, without a doubt. The reason why I want to defend my team is clear – because from my experience to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, high nineties, or we fall short."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
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," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
When questioned if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me about the quadruple last winter when we won the quadruple? No."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "I've known him for many years and post-match, home or away, we talk in the tunnel. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I enjoy it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."
He wouldn't mind if an opposition manager spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "No - as long as you talk with respect as I do, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. Goodness, he was involved."
Debatable Calls
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR did not award City a penalty on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Next Big Match
He will manage of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, showing we compete we have been there," he said.
The club has ten points after four games in the group, while Leverkusen have five.
