Manchester City's manager Expresses Remorse Over Broadcast Crew Incident Following Loss to Newcastle
The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" following a confrontation with a TV crew member subsequent to the Citizens' loss at Newcastle on Saturday.
When the match concluded, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the broadcast crew's equipment.
"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I'm humiliated, regretful, looking back. 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, errors happen."
"What is for sure, I stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. The reason why I support my squad is no doubt – based on my career to win the Premier League we need near-perfect totals, 98 points, or we fall short."
Team Standing and Guardiola's Assessment
The team sits in third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points following their fourth loss of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Technically, we can still achieve all."
When questioned about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple last winter when we won the quadruple? No."
Exchange with Bruno
On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, Guardiola said: "I've known him for many years and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, 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 it's respectful like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he said, mentioning the referee. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, constantly. Goodness, very much so."
Controversial Decisions
City were unhappy that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Pictures published later show he was level.
Upcoming Milestone
Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe versus Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, it means that every season we have been there," he commented.
The club has ten points from four matches in the group, while Leverkusen have five.
