Manchester City's manager Expresses Remorse Over Camera Operator Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" after an exchange with a TV crew member in the wake of the Citizens' 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 Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I apologised," Guardiola stated. "I'm humiliated, regretful, looking back. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I'm far from perfect, errors happen."
"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. Why I support my squad is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, high nineties, or we fall short."
City's Position and Guardiola's Assessment
The team sits in third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points following their fourth loss of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Technically, we can to win everything."
When questioned about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk discuss four trophies last winter during our historic run? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, the coach explained: "I've known him a long time and post-match, even at the Etihad, we converse. We often meet and I always have a good relationship. I enjoy it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players immediately after a game. "No - as long as it's respectful like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he noted, mentioning the referee. "He was part of it throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, he was involved."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR did not award City a penalty for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, and doubted if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, it means that every season we have been there," he said.
City have 10 points from four matches in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.
