Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Loss to Newcastle

Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" following a confrontation with a camera operator subsequent to the Citizens' 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.

At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola stepped onto the field and engaged in intense talks with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the broadcast crew's equipment.

"I apologised," Guardiola stated. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. I don’t like it. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. I am who I am. With a thousand matches under my belt I'm far from perfect, I make huge mistakes."

"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my 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, 98 points, or we fall short."

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 means we must do better," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."

When questioned if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk about the quadruple last winter when we won the quadruple? Never."

Exchange with Bruno

On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, the coach explained: "I've known him for many years and post-match, even at the Etihad, 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 move my hands."

Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager addressed his squad immediately after a game. "Not if you talk with respect as I do, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved throughout the match, constantly. My God, he was involved."

Controversial Decisions

The team felt aggrieved that the officials denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Next Big Match

He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen this week. "It’s quite good, it means that every season annually," he said.

The club has ten points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.

Shannon Houston
Shannon Houston

A Berlin-based environmental advocate and wellness coach, passionate about sharing sustainable living tips and holistic health practices.