Emotional Guardiola reflects on regretful clash with cameraman

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed remorse for his heated confrontation with a cameraman following his team’s 2–1 loss to Newcastle United on Saturday, Sport360NG reports.

Guardiola, visibly frustrated by several decisions he felt went against his side, including a rejected penalty appeal, a handball claim and a tight offside call, walked onto the pitch at St James’ Park after the final whistle to challenge referee Sam Barrott. In the process, he removed a cameraman’s headphones to speak directly into his ear.

Speaking on Monday, as reported by BBC Sport, the Spaniard said he quickly apologised for his behaviour.

“I apologised. I feel embarrassed, ashamed when I see it. I don’t like it. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. I am who I am,” Guardiola said. “After 1,000 games, I’m not a perfect person; I make huge mistakes. The reason why is I want to defend my team and my club.”

The tense ending to the match also saw players involved in confrontations. City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was guided down the tunnel, while Newcastle midfielder Joelinton was held back by manager Eddie Howe. Guardiola was also seen exchanging words with Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães.

Addressing that moment, Guardiola said his relationship with the Brazilian midfielder has always been respectful.

“We have known Bruno for many, many years, and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel or wherever. I don’t know what happened,” he said. “Our paths always cross, and I always have a good relationship with him. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and move my hands and my arms and everything.”