Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted to feeling “embarrassed and ashamed” of his conduct during teh recent Premier League match against Newcastle United. The incident occurred following a controversial late penalty decision that secured a 2-1 victory for Newcastle at St. James’ Park on Saturday.
Guardiola confronted referee Anthony Taylor after the final whistle, appearing to vehemently protest the decision and engaging in a heated exchange.He later described his behavior as unacceptable.
“I apologise to Anthony Taylor,” Guardiola said. “I lost my control and I am embarrassed and ashamed. I’ve been in this business for many years and I should not have behaved like that.”
The Football Association has confirmed it is indeed investigating the incident and will review footage and Taylor’s report. Guardiola could face disciplinary action, potentially including a touchline ban.
This season marks Guardiola’s 100th Champions League match as Manchester City manager, following thier historic treble-winning campaign in 2023, which culminated in a victory over Inter Milan in the final held in Istanbul. Though, City have also experienced heartbreak in the competition, losing the 2021 final to Chelsea and suffering a semi-final defeat to Real Madrid in 2022.
Defender Josko Gvardiol reflected on a arduous previous season for the club, describing it as “the worst season I ever had in my career.” City failed to win a major trophy for the frist time in eight years, exiting the Champions League at the play-off stage, finishing third in the Premier League, and losing the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace. “it was painful,” Gvardiol said. “I couldn’t sleep in the nights because I was trying to find solutions and I was trying help the team and everyone in the club to get out of this position.”
Manchester City are currently fourth in their Champions League group and face Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday, seeking a win to solidify their position in the top eight and secure a direct path to the knockout stages. Guardiola noted City are the only English team to have qualified for the Champions League for the past 14 consecutive seasons, adding, “Every season we have been there and hopefully next season we will be there too.” He acknowledged the importance of the competition for the club’s prestige and financial stability, stating, “There are more disappointments than good moments.”
