Pep Guardiola has apologised for his comments in the aftermath of Manchester City’s 3-3 draw with Feyenoord in the Champions League.
City’s winless run extended to six games as Guardiola’s side blew a three-goal lead to draw with the Dutch side at the Etihad.
It continued a miserable run of form for the Citizens, who failed to win a game in which they led by three goals for the first time since 1989. The game was also the first time a team has led by three goals in the 75th minute or later of a Champions League fixture and not won the game.
Guardiola’s frustration was visible with the Spaniard’s face marked and cut at full-time from self-inflicted scratches. Asked about his injuries in his post-match press conference, the 53-year-old said “I want to harm myself” before laughing and leaving.
Guardiola has now issued an apology and said he never intended to ‘make light’ about self harm and said he was ‘caught off guard’ by the question.
“I was caught off guard with a question at the end of a press conference last night about a scratch which had appeared on my face and explained that a sharp fingernail had accidentally caused this,” he wrote on X.
“My answer was in no way intended to make light of the very serious issue of self harm.
“I know that many people struggle with mental health issues every day, and I would like to take this moment to highlight one of the ways in people can seek help, by calling the Samaritans hotline on 116 123 or emailing [email protected].”
