Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Camera Operator Incident Following Loss to Newcastle

Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" following an exchange with a TV crew member in the wake of the Citizens' loss away to the Magpies this past weekend.

At full time, an emotional 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," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. I don’t like it. I apologised after one second to the operator. That's just me. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, 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 trail leaders Arsenal by seven points after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. "Four defeats in twelve matches we have to improve a lot," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."

When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk discuss four trophies in December during our historic run? Never."

Interaction with Guimarães

Regarding his confrontation with the Newcastle player, the coach explained: "We have known Bruno a long time and post-match, home or away, we talk in the tunnel. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and move my hands."

He wouldn't mind should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "Not if you talk with respect as I do, it's fine," he said, mentioning the referee. "He was part of it for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, constantly. Goodness, very much so."

Debatable Calls

The team felt aggrieved that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Next Big Match

Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, showing we compete annually," he said.

City have 10 points after four games in the group, while Leverkusen have five.

Kimberly Huffman
Kimberly Huffman

A passionate hiker and outdoor writer who documents trails worldwide and advocates for sustainable adventure travel.