Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Camera Operator Incident Following Loss to Magpies

Pep Guardiola has admitted feeling "shame" after a confrontation with a TV crew member in the wake of Manchester City's loss at Newcastle this past weekend.

At full time, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.

"I apologised," Guardiola stated. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."

"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, that’s for sure. Why I support my squad is no doubt – based on my career to clinch the title 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 following their fourth loss of the season. "Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything."

When questioned if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? No."

Exchange with Bruno

On the subject of his talk with the Newcastle player, the coach explained: "I've known him for many years 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 if an opposition manager addressed his squad right after the final whistle. "No - as long as it's respectful as I do, it’s not a problem," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, constantly. 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 if Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later show he was level.

Next Big Match

He will manage of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, it means that every season annually," he said.

The club has ten points after four games in the group, while Leverkusen have five.

Gabrielle Zavala
Gabrielle Zavala

A seasoned sports journalist with over a decade of experience covering major leagues worldwide.