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Guardiola apologizes after confronting cameraman in Newcastle defeat
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued an apology for his confrontation with a cameraman following his team's 2-1 Premier League loss to Newcastle United at St James' Park on Saturday.
City's defeat was marred by contentious refereeing decisions, including a disputed penalty, a rejected handball claim, and a tight offside call. Visibly frustrated at full-time, Guardiola stormed onto the pitch to speak with referee Sam Barrott before approaching a cameraman, removing his headphones, and speaking directly into his ear.
Regret and explanation
Guardiola later expressed remorse for the incident, calling it an "embarrassing" moment. "I apologized after one second to the cameraman," he admitted. "I am who I am-I'm not a perfect person after 1,000 games. I make huge mistakes. But my intention was to defend my team and my club."
The Spaniard acknowledged his emotional nature, adding, "I'm an emotional guy. I love to talk, move my hands, my arms-everything." The confrontation was one of several post-match flare-ups, including altercations involving City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and Newcastle midfielder Joelinton, who was restrained by manager Eddie Howe.
Guardiola's relationship with Guimarães
Guardiola also had words with Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães, though he downplayed any tension. "We have known Bruno for many years," he said. "After every game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel or wherever. Our paths always cross, and I always have a good relationship with him."
Focus shifts to Champions League milestone
City now turn their attention to Tuesday's Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen, where a win would strengthen their position in the group stage. The match will mark Guardiola's 100th as City manager in the competition, a tenure highlighted by their 2023 triumph over Inter Milan in the final.
Reflecting on the club's consistency, Guardiola noted, "Every season we have been there [in the Champions League]. It's special for the players, managers, everyone. To challenge yourself against the best teams in Europe is incredible." He also acknowledged the competition's difficulties, saying, "There are more disappointments than good moments."
Last season's struggles
Defender Josko Gvardiol described the 2023-24 campaign-City's first trophyless season in eight years-as the "worst" of his career. "It was painful," he admitted. "I couldn't sleep at night, trying to find solutions. But I'm glad it's behind us, and we've recovered well."
"Sport is tough-it's not always flowers on the road or easy and comfortable."
Pep Guardiola
