Pep Guardiola apologized for a comment referring to self-harm in his press conference after Manchester City’s draw against Feyenoord.
At the press conference, the Manchester City manager was questioned about a cut on his nose and scratches were also visible on his head.
“Yes, it’s from the fingernail,” Guardiola replied. ‘I cut myself with my nail (during the game).
Guardiola then added, “I want to hurt myself,” before smiling at reporters and leaving at the end of his press conference.
The comment caused 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 intend to make light of the self-harm.
Pep Guardiola was left with several cuts and marks after Manchester City’s draw with Feyenoord
Guardiola commented that he wanted to hurt himself after seeing his team’s capitulation
Guardiola clarified his comment and stated that he “in no way intended” to downplay the issue.
The 53-year-old admitted he was caught off guard by the question at the end of the press conference.
“Last night, at the end of a press conference, they surprised me with a question about a scratch that had appeared on my face and explained to me that a sharp nail had accidentally caused it,” Guardiola wrote.
‘My response was in no way intended to downplay the 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 people can seek help – by calling the Samaritans hotline on 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org. ‘
Guardiola’s comment generated concern in societyinternational media by alarmed fans.
Broadcaster Nicky Crosby wrote: ‘In what other industry would this be considered okay? People would offer support and professional help. Why should football be different?
“It’s hard to watch.”
One fan wrote: “I really hope Pep Guardiola has good connections and people to help him.”
‘Mental health is no joke and he is clearly going through a difficult time. He seemed very uncomfortable and quickly walked away after saying he wanted to hurt himself.’
Broadcaster Nicky Crosby suggested Guardiola’s comment at the press conference was “difficult to watch”.
Guardiola’s comment sparked concern among fans, who urged that his statement be taken seriously.
Others echoed hopes that Guardiola has a strong support network at Manchester City and insisted his comment should be viewed seriously.
“When I saw it, I didn’t take it easy and no one should,” another wrote. “You need to have a good support system around you.”
Manchester City’s draw with Feyenoord ended a five-match losing streak, the worst streak of Guardiola’s coaching career.
Guardiola lamented his team’s inability to win games after Feyenoord scored three goals in 14 second-half minutes to shock City.
“We are not capable of winning games,” admitted Guardiola. ‘As a team, we always found 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 more than a month.
“It wasn’t necessary to tell them anything, they know perfectly well,” Guardiola said when asked what he told his players.
City’s winless streak has extended to six games and they now head to title rivals Liverpool.
Guardiola signed a new contract with Manchester City last week, but is experiencing one of his most difficult moments as a coach.
‘Three episodes and they (Feyenoord) didn’t allow us to win. It is what it is and very difficult to swallow. It will be a tough season for us and we have to accept it. We have to lift them up (for Anfield). I have to lift my players up. It’s my job.’
Guardiola agreed last week to extend his contract with Manchester City until 2027, which would take him more than a decade in charge.
The Catalan claimed to have a “special feeling” and the support of key figures at the club helped convince him to stay at Manchester City, where he has led the team to six Premier League titles.