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Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" after a confrontation with a camera operator in the wake of the Citizens' 2-1 defeat at Newcastle this past weekend.

At full time, a visibly upset Guardiola stepped onto the field and engaged in intense talks with match official Sam Barrott and Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.

"I said sorry," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, looking back. I don’t like it. I immediately apologized to the cameraman. That's just me. After 1,000 games I'm far from perfect, errors happen."

"One thing is certain, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. The reason why I want to defend my team is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we need near-perfect totals, 98 points, otherwise we don’t win it."

Team Standing and Guardiola's Assessment

The team sits in third and are seven behind the Gunners following their fourth loss this campaign. "Losing four games out of 12 means we must do better," Guardiola admitted. "Technically, we can still achieve all."

The manager was asked if this meant the quadruple was a realistic aim, Guardiola answered: "As a seasoned reporter, have you ever heard me about the quadruple in December during our historic run? Never."

Interaction with Guimarães

Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, the coach explained: "I've known him for many years and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we converse. We often meet and we get along well. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and gesticulate."

Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players right after the final whistle. "Not if it's respectful as I do, it’s not a problem," he noted, mentioning the referee. "He was part of it throughout the match, he was involved. My God, he was involved."

Controversial Decisions

City were unhappy that the officials denied a spot-kick for a Fabian Schär challenge on Phil Foden, while they also questioned Bruno's positioning on Barnes' goal the decisive strike. Subsequent images show he was level.

Next Big Match

Guardiola will take charge of his 100th Champions League game versus Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, showing we compete annually," he commented.

The club has ten points after four games in the group, while Leverkusen have five.