Manchester City's manager Voices Remorse Over Camera Operator Incident Following Defeat to Newcastle

Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" following 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 engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, and also touched the headphones of the camera operator.

"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. It's not acceptable. 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 stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. Why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we need near-perfect totals, high nineties, 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. "Technically, we can still achieve all."

When questioned about a potential quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk discuss four trophies last winter when we won the quadruple? No."

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 we get along well. I enjoy it. I’m an emotional guy, I like discussing and move my hands."

Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "No - as long as it's respectful like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he said, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved throughout the match, constantly. Goodness, very much so."

Debatable Calls

City were unhappy that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, and doubted Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Upcoming Milestone

He will manage his century in Europe against Bayer Leverkusen this week. "It’s quite good, showing we compete annually," he commented.

The club has ten points from four matches of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.

Melissa Smith
Melissa Smith

A tech journalist and gaming aficionado with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital culture.