Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said he was embarrassed and ashamed after clashing with a cameraman following his side’s Premier League defeat by Newcastle United on Saturday.
Guardiola was furious over several decisions during the 2-1 defeat at St James’ Park and appeared to vent his frustration on a pitchside TV cameraman after the final whistle.
Speaking ahead of City’s Champions League home clash with Bayer Leverkusen on Monday, Guardiola said:
I feel embarrassed and ashamed to see it. I don’t like it. I apologize to the cameraman. I am who I am, even after 1000 games I’m not a perfect person and I make mistakes because I defend my team and my club. Although I realize I’m getting old.
City’s defeat left them reeling seven points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal but will have the chance to make amends with Leverkusen on Wednesday in what will be Guardiola’s 100th Champions League game as City manager.
City is fourth in the Champions League standings on the back of three wins, and a win at home to Leverkusen would leave them in a strong position to clinch a place in the top eight and avoid the need for a play-off to reach the knockout rounds, a situation that cost them dearly last season when they lost to Real Madrid 6-3 on aggregate.
Rodri and Mateo Kovačić will not compete for the performance, while he said for the other players that they are ready. Regarding Rodrigo’s return, he pointed out that his recovery is still being monitored: – He is not ready yet. The process is ongoing and we’ll wait a little longer to make sure it’s all right.
(China)
