Manchester City's manager Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Defeat to Newcastle
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" following an exchange with a camera operator subsequent to Manchester City's loss at Newcastle on Saturday.
At full time, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder 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. 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 no doubt – because from my experience to win the Premier League we need near-perfect totals, high nineties, otherwise we don’t win it."
City's Position and Manager's Take
City are third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
The manager was asked about a potential quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple last winter during our historic run? No."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "I've known him for many years and every time after the game, 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 love to talk and move my hands."
He wouldn't mind should a rival coach spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "Not if you talk with respect as I do, it’s not a problem," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. Goodness, very much so."
Debatable Calls
City were unhappy that the officials did not award City a penalty on a Schär tackle against Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen this week. "It’s quite good, it means that every season we have been there," he commented.
City have 10 points from four matches of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.
