Pep Guardiola admitted he felt “shame” after a post-match incident with a camera operator following Manchester City’s 2-1 defeat at Newcastle.
At full time he went onto the pitch and spoke with referee Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães. He also touched the headphones of a camera operator.
“I apologised,” Guardiola said. “I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. I don’t like it. 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.
City sit third in the table and are seven points behind leaders Arsenal after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. Guardiola said the team must get better. “Losing four games out of 12 we have to improve a lot,” he admitted. “Mathematically, it’s possible to win everything.”
When asked if challenging results made the quadruple a real goal, he replied: “You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? No.”
Guardiola described his rapport with Bruno Guimarães. “We have known Bruno for many years and every time after the game, even at the Etihad [Stadium], we talk in the tunnel or wherever. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship with him. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and move my hands and my arms and everything.”
He said he has no issue with opposing coaches speaking to his players after a match if they do so politely. “No, as long as you talk with respect like I always have done, it’s not a problem,” he said. He also defended the referee’s role in the game: “The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, he was involved. My God, he was involved.”
City were angry that Barrott and VAR official Craig Pawson did not award a penalty after a challenge by Fabian Schär on Phil Foden. They also questioned whether Bruno Guimarães was offside when Harvey Barnes scored the 70th‑minute winner; later images suggested he was onside.
City now look to return to winning form after a 2-0 loss to Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Guardiolas actions show passion, not shame. Hes human too. Lets cut him some slack, weve all had our moments.
I think Guardiolas emotional reaction shows his passion for the game. Its refreshing to see raw emotions in a highly competitive environment.
I dont get why people are making a big deal about Guardiolas sideline confrontation. Its just emotions running high!
I think Guardiolas emotional outburst shows his passion for the game. Its human to have moments of shame, but its how we learn and grow.
Do you think Guardiolas shame is genuine or just for show? I feel like theres more to this story than meets the eye.
Do you think Guardiolas reaction was justified or over the top? Lets debate! #FootballDrama #Controversy