Manchester City Boss Apologises for Touchline Outburst Following Newcastle Loss
Manchester: Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has publicly expressed deep regret for his behaviour following his team’s damaging 2-1 Premier League defeat to Newcastle United on Saturday, stating he felt “embarrassed and ashamed” after confronting a cameraman.
The incident occurred immediately after the final whistle at St James’ Park, as an irate Guardiola was filmed up close while in animated discussions with match officials and Newcastle player Bruno Guimarães. The City boss was visibly angered by the decision to award Newcastle’s 70th-minute winning goal, which his side believed involved a foul on goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, ahead of City’s Champions League clash with Bayer Leverkusen, Guardiola confirmed he had apologised for his reaction.
“I feel embarrassed and ashamed when I see it,” he said. “I don’t like it. I apologised to the cameraman after one second. I made a huge mistake…. The reason why is I want to defend my team and my club.”
The defeat was City’s fourth in the Premier League this season, leaving them third in the table and seven points adrift of leaders Arsenal. However, Guardiola insisted the domestic reverse was “immediately forgotten” as he focused on the European campaign, where City sit fourth in the 36-team league phase.
The manager also confirmed that midfielders Rodri and Mateo Kovacic are unavailable for Tuesday’s match against Leverkusen. Guardiola added he did not have a precise timescale for Rodri’s return but stressed the star midfielder would not be out for long. “We will wait a little more to be sure he is fine,” he concluded.