Manchester City's manager Voices Regret Over Camera Operator Incident Following Loss to Newcastle
The City boss confessed feeling "shame" after an exchange with a camera operator subsequent to the Citizens' 2-1 defeat away to the Magpies this past weekend.
At full time, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and had heated discussions with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. 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. Why I want to defend my team is clear – because from my experience to win the Premier League we need near-perfect totals, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."
Team Standing and Manager's Take
The team sits in third and are seven behind the Gunners following their fourth loss this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Technically, we can still achieve all."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk about the quadruple last winter when we won the quadruple? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno for many years and every time after the game, home or away, we converse. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and move my hands."
He wouldn't mind should a rival coach 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. "He was part of it throughout the match, he was involved. Goodness, very much so."
Debatable Calls
City were unhappy that Barrott or the VAR did not award City a penalty for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe against Bayer Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, showing we compete annually," he commented.
The club has ten points after four games of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.
