Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted he felt “embarrassed and ashamed” after a post-match altercation with a cameraman following his team’s Premier League defeat to Newcastle United on Saturday.

Guardiola, who was visibly angered by several decisions during the 2–1 loss at St James’ Park, appeared to vent his frustration toward a pitch-side television cameraman immediately after the final whistle.

Speaking on Monday ahead of City’s Champions League home fixture against Bayer Leverkusen, Guardiola said: “When I watch it back, I feel embarrassed and ashamed. I don’t like seeing myself behave like that.

“I apologise to the cameraman. I am who I am. Even after 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person—I make mistakes. I will always defend my team and my club.”

The defeat to Newcastle leaves City seven points adrift of league leaders Arsenal, but Guardiola’s side have little time to dwell on the setback as they prepare for the Leverkusen clash, which will mark his 100th Champions League match in charge of the club.

Reflecting on the milestone so soon after reaching 1,000 matches as a manager overall, Guardiola said: “It makes me realise I’m getting older. But it’s good—it means we’ve been competing every season.

“The Champions League is a huge competition. It’s special for the players, and to measure yourself against the best clubs in Europe is an incredible experience. For the club, it’s vital for reputation, prestige, and financial reasons.”

City currently sit fourth in their Champions League group with three wins and a draw. A victory at home against 21st-placed Leverkusen would put them in a strong position to secure a top-eight finish and avoid the playoff round that proved costly last season, when they were eliminated 6–3 on aggregate by Real Madrid.

“We’re entering the final four group games,” Guardiola said. “Two at home, two away. Leverkusen are third in the Bundesliga, so it’s a hugely important match. To finish in the top eight, we need tomorrow and one more point to be through to the next round.

“Tomorrow is crucial, and we must focus on what needs to be done.”

Guardiola also confirmed that midfielder Rodri will be unavailable for the match, along with Mateo Kovacic. Asked for a timeframe on Rodri’s return, he replied: “Not long, but I’m not sure exactly when. We’ll wait a bit longer to make sure he’s fully ready.”