Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola has apologised for a comment referencing self-harm in his post-match press conference following Manchester City’s draw against Feyenoord on Tuesday night, November 26.
The highly successful football coach 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 prompted some fans to express concern due to his reference of self-harm.
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.’
Guardiola has now taken to social media to issue a statement, insisting he did not mean to make light of self-harm.
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 [email protected].’
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.
