Pep Guardiola apologises for making light of self-harm in press conference | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued an apology after he was accused of making light of self-harm during his post-match press conference on Tuesday.

After City squandered a 3-0 lead to draw 3-3 with Feyenoord in the Champions League, extending their winless run to six matches, Guardiola was asked by a journalist to explain the visible cuts on his nose and head.

"[I cut myself] with my finger, with my nail," explained the Catalan coach, before jokingly adding: "I want to harm myself."

Guardiola was criticised for his comment, which appeared to make light of a serious subject, and on Wednesday the 53-year-old subsequently issued an apology via his official X account.

"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 said.

"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 side are next in action when City travel to face Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday.

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