Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola has opened up after it was reported that the manager injured himself after their 3-3 draw. The former Barcelona manager said he did not intend “to make light” of self-harm when he answered a question about scratches on his face.
Pep Guardiola Reacts to Comments on Scratch on his Face
Man City threw away a 3-0 lead to draw with Dutch side Feynood 3-3 in the Champions League on Tuesday. After the game Pep Guardiola was seen with several scratch marks on his forehead during his post-match interview with broadcaster Amazon Prime.
He was asked by reporters during his news conference about a mark on his nose, and he said “With my finger, my nail.” The 53-year-old then said “I want to harm myself” before laughing and leaving the news conference.
He also said: “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 stated clearly that his answer was in no way intended to make light of the very serious issue of self-harm. The statement added that Guardiola is aware “many people struggle with mental health issues every day” and referenced the Samaritans charity to “highlight one of the ways people can seek help”.
The draw against Feyenoord at Etihad Stadium ended City’s five-game losing run. However, the club have not won since beating Southampton 1-0 on 26 October. Guardiola’s side are 15th in the Champions League’s 36-team table and second in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Liverpool, who they face at Anfield on Sunday.
