Pep Guardiola has clarified the comments he made after Manchester City’s 3-3 draw against Feyenoord on Tuesday evening.
Guardiola, 53, was visibly frustrated as his side surrendered a three-goal lead in just 15 minutes to continue their poor run of form.
The draw saw City go 15th in the 36-team Champions League group phase having already dropped points against Inter Milan and Sporting this term.
The Premier League champions are without a win in their last six games – including five defeats.
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After last night’s game, the Spaniard had visible scratches on his head and nose. He explained how he had got them in his post-match press conference.
"I cut it with my finger, my nail,” explained the City boss.
He then continued saying he wanted to “hurt himself”, before laughing.
Now, he has taken to X to address his comments.
"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,” read a post to his official X account.
“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].”
Guardiola was less than pleased with his side's lacklustre performance but stressed how his players were "desperate" to win against Sporting.
“They feel it, they are desperate to win, that’s why they play the way they play,” the City boss said.
“They played really good in many aspects. How many chances we conceded but again three goals. We made 26 shots against Spurs and lost 4-0.
“We are a team that has conceded so few goals in eight or nine years. We are always so stable and able to defend well and now it’s not happening.
“The game was 3-0 and even more, I don’t remember much - maybe one shot. We cannot close the games and every time they arrive they score.”
The 53-year-old will no doubt already be planning for his side's trip to Anfield, where they will face Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.
City currently trail Arne Slot's side by eight points and will hoping to reduce the gap this weekend.
Topics: Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, Premier League, Football
Luke Davies