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Pep Guardiola has admitted experiencing "embarrassment" after a confrontation with a TV crew member in the wake of the Citizens' loss at Newcastle this past weekend.

At full time, an emotional Guardiola entered the St James’ Park pitch and had heated discussions with the referee, Sam Barrott and Magpies midfielder Bruno Guimarães, while also handling the headphones of the camera operator.

"I apologised," the manager remarked. "I feel embarrassed, ashamed, when I see it. It's not acceptable. I immediately apologized to the operator. I am who I am. With a thousand matches under my belt I'm far from perfect, I make huge mistakes."

"What is for sure, I defend any team and my club, without a doubt. The reason why I support my squad is no doubt – because from my experience to clinch the title we need near-perfect totals, high nineties, or we fall short."

Team Standing and Guardiola's Assessment

The team sits in third and are seven behind the Gunners after what was their fourth league defeat this campaign. "Four defeats in twelve matches means we must do better," he conceded. "Mathematically, it’s possible still achieve all."

When questioned about a potential quadruple was a realistic aim, he responded: "You are an experienced journalist, did you hear my talk about the quadruple in December during our historic run? No."

Interaction with Guimarães

Regarding his confrontation with Guimarães, the coach explained: "We have known Bruno for many years and every time after the game, home or away, we talk in the tunnel. We often meet and we get along well. I enjoy it. I'm passionate, I like discussing and move my hands."

Guardiola would not be concerned if an opposition manager spoke to his players immediately after a game. "No - as long as you talk with respect like I always have done, it's fine," he said, before referencing Barrott. "He was part of it throughout the match, he was involved. Goodness, he was involved."

Controversial Decisions

The team felt aggrieved that the officials did not award City a penalty on a Schär tackle against Foden, while they also questioned if Guimarães was offside on Barnes' goal Newcastle’s 70th-minute winner. Pictures published later indicate the Brazilian was onside.

Next Big Match

He will manage his century in Europe against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday. "It’s quite good, it means that every season we have been there," he said.

The club has ten points from four matches of the league phase, while Leverkusen have five.