Pep Guardiola Voices Regret Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Loss to Magpies
The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" following an exchange with a camera operator subsequent to the Citizens' loss away to the Magpies on Saturday.
When the match concluded, a visibly upset Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and engaged in intense talks with the referee, Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.
"I said sorry," Guardiola stated. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. That's just me. With a thousand matches under my belt I’m not a perfect person, errors happen."
"What is for sure, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. The reason why I support my squad is clear – because from my experience to win the Premier League we have to do 100 points, 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 following their fourth loss of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," Guardiola admitted. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."
The manager was asked about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me discuss four trophies in December when we won the quadruple? Never."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, the coach explained: "I've known him for many years and every time after the game, home or away, we talk in the tunnel. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I enjoy it. I'm passionate, I love to talk and gesticulate."
Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach addressed his squad right after the final whistle. "Not if you talk with respect like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he noted, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. Goodness, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.
Upcoming Milestone
He will manage of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, showing we compete we have been there," he said.
City have 10 points after four games in the group, while Leverkusen have five.
