Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has clarified that he did not intend “to make light” of self-harm after he made a comment about scratches on his face.
City were held to a 3-3 draw by Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday night, having blown a 3-0 lead, and Guardiola was later seen with scratches on his forehead during an interview with a broadcaster.
When asked about a mark on his nose at his news conference, Guardiola responded by mimicking a scratching motion and saying, “With my finger, my nail.” He then joked, “I want to harm myself,” before laughing and exiting the 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,” said a statement posted on Guardiola’s official X and Instagram accounts.
“My answer was in no way intended to make light of the very serious issue of self-harm.”
The statement continued, noting that Guardiola is aware of “many people struggle with mental health issues every day” and highlighted the Samaritans charity as a way people can seek help.
The draw against Feyenoord at the Etihad Stadium ended City’s five-game losing streak, though they have not won since a 1-0 victory over Southampton on 26 October.
Guardiola’s side are currently 15th in the Champions League table, out of 36 teams, and second in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Liverpool, whom they will face at Anfield on Sunday.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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