- Guardiola has taken to social media to address his remark in a press conference
- The Man City boss said he did not mean to make light of self harm with his remark
- Liverpool correspondent LEWIS STEELE tells all on bombshell chat with Mo Salah – LISTEN NOW to It’s All Kicking Off! New episodes every Monday and Thursday
Pep Guardiola has apologised for a comment referencing self harm in his post match press conference following Manchester City’s draw against Feyenoord.
The Man City boss was questioned in the press conference about a cut on his nose, while scratches were also visible on his head.
‘Yes, it’s from my nail on my finger,’ Guardiola replied. ‘I cut myself with my fingernail (during the game).
Guardiola then added ‘I want to harm myself’, before smiling to reporters and leaving at the conclusion of his press conference.
The remark had prompted some fans to express concern due to the reference to self-harm.
Guardiola has now taken to social media to issue a statement, insisting he did not mean to make light of self-harm.
Pep Guardiola was left with a number of cuts and marks after Man City’s draw with Feyenoord
Guardiola commented that he wanted to harm himself after watching his side’s capitulation
Guardiola has clarified his comment, stating he ‘in no way intended’ to make light of the issue
The 53-year-old admitted he had been caught off guard by the question at the end of the press conference.
‘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,’ Guardiola wrote.
‘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 jo@samaritans.org.’
Guardiola’s comment had led to concerns on social media by alarmed fans.
Broadcaster Nicky Crosby wrote: ‘In what other industry would this be considered ok? People would offer support and professional help. Why should football be any different?!
‘It’s tough to watch.’
A fan wrote: ‘I seriously hope Pep Guardiola has good connections and people helping him out.
‘Mental health is no joke and he’s clearly going through a rough time. He seemed so awkward and rushed away pretty quickly after saying he wants to harm himself.’
Broadcaster Nicky Crosby suggested Guardiola’s press conference comment was ‘tough to watch’
Guardiola’s comment had prompted concerns among fans, who urged his statement to be taken seriously
Others echoed the hopes that Guardiola has a strong support network at Man City and insisted his comment should be viewed in a serious way.
‘When I saw it, I didn’t take it lying down and no-one should,’ another wrote. ‘He needs to have a good support system around him’.
Man City’s draw with Feyenoord ended a run of five consecutive defeats, the worst run of Guardiola’s managerial career.
Guardiola bemoaned his team’s inability to win games after Feyenoord scored three goals in 14 second-half minutes to stun City.
‘We are not able to win games, admitted Guardiola. ‘As a team, always we find a way over the years. Right now, in another situation, nothing happens.’
Man City will go into Sunday’s clash against Premier League leaders Liverpool at Anfield, without a win in over a month.
‘It was not necessary to say anything to them – they know it perfectly,’ said Guardiola, when asked what he said to his players.
City’s winless run has now extended to six games as they now head to title rivals Liverpool
Guardiola signed a new contract at Man City last week, but is experiencing one of his toughest moments as a manager
‘Three episodes and they (Feyenoord) didn’t allow us to win. It is what it is and so difficult to swallow. It will be a tough season for us and we have to accept it. We have to lift them (for Anfield). I have to lift my players. It is my job.’
Guardiola last week agreed to extend his contract at Man City until 2027, which would take him to over a decade in charge.
The Catalan claimed a ‘special feeling’ and the support of key figures at the club had helped convince him to stay at Man City, where he has led the team to six Premier League titles.