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

Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" following an exchange with a camera operator in the wake of the Citizens' 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.

At full time, a visibly upset 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 feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. I am who I am. After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes."

"What is for sure, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. The reason why I support my squad is no doubt – based on my career to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."

City's Position and Guardiola's Assessment

The team sits in third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points after what was their fourth league defeat of the season. "Four defeats in twelve matches we have to improve a lot," Guardiola admitted. "Technically, we can still achieve all."

The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple could be achieved, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, did you hear my talk about the quadruple in December when we won the quadruple? Never."

Interaction with Guimarães

On the subject of his talk with Guimarães, Guardiola said: "We have known Bruno a long time and post-match, even at the Etihad, we converse. Our paths always cross and we get along well. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and move my hands."

Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "Not if it's respectful like I always have done, it’s not a problem," he said, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved for 95 minutes, 98 minutes, constantly. My God, he was involved."

Controversial Decisions

The team felt aggrieved that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge against Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Subsequent images indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Next Big Match

Guardiola will take charge his century in Europe against Bayer Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, it means that every season annually," he said.

City have 10 points from four matches in the group, while Leverkusen have five.