Pep Guardiola Voices Remorse Over Camera Operator Altercation Following Defeat to Magpies

The City boss confessed experiencing "embarrassment" after a confrontation with a TV crew member in the wake of Manchester City's loss at Newcastle this past weekend.

At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola stepped onto the field and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.

"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. 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 defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. Why I support my squad 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 Guardiola's Assessment

The team sits in third and are seven behind the Gunners following their fourth loss this campaign. "Four defeats in twelve matches we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Technically, we can still achieve all."

The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "You are an experienced journalist, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? No."

Exchange with Bruno

On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno for many years and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and I always have a good relationship. I enjoy it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."

Guardiola would not be concerned should a rival coach addressed his squad immediately after a game. "Not if you talk with respect as I do, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. My God, he was involved."

Debatable Calls

City were unhappy that the officials did not award City a penalty on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning when Harvey Barnes scored Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Next Big Match

Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "That's impressive, showing we compete we have been there," he commented.

City have 10 points after four games of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.