Pep Guardiola Expresses Regret Over Broadcast Crew Incident Following Loss to Magpies

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

At full time, an emotional Guardiola stepped onto the field and had heated discussions with the referee, Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.

"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I'm humiliated, regretful, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the operator. 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 stand by my team and club, that’s for sure. The reason why I support my squad is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we have to do 100 points, high nineties, otherwise we don’t win it."

City's Position and Manager's Take

The team sits in third and trail leaders Arsenal by seven points following their fourth loss this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," he conceded. "Technically, we can to win everything."

When questioned if this meant the quadruple could be achieved, he responded: "You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk about the quadruple in December during our historic run? Never."

Interaction with Guimarães

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 converse. Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship. I love it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."

Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players immediately after a game. "Not if it's respectful as I do, it’s not a problem," he noted, before referencing Barrott. "The referee was involved throughout the match, he was involved. Goodness, very much so."

Controversial Decisions

The team felt aggrieved that the officials denied a spot-kick on a Schär tackle on Phil Foden, and doubted Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later show he was level.

Upcoming Milestone

He will manage of his 100th Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen this week. "That's impressive, showing we compete annually," he commented.

City have 10 points after four games in the group, and Leverkusen hold five.