Manchester City's manager Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Altercation Following Defeat 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 on Saturday.
At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola stepped onto the field and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.
"I apologised," Guardiola stated. "I'm humiliated, regretful, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the operator. That's just me. With a thousand matches under my belt I'm far from perfect, I make huge mistakes."
"What is for sure, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. Why I support my squad 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 Guardiola's Assessment
City are third and are seven behind the Gunners following their fourth loss of the season. "Four defeats in twelve matches means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."
The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies in December when we won the quadruple? Never."
Interaction with Guimarães
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno a long time and post-match, home or away, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."
Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players immediately after a game. "Not if it's respectful as I do, it's fine," he said, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, constantly. My God, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
The team felt aggrieved that the officials did not award City a penalty for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Pictures published later show he was level.
Next Big Match
He will manage his century in Europe versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, it means that every season we have been there," he commented.
City have 10 points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.
