Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola clarified that he did not intend “to make light” of self-harm when addressing questions about the scratches on his face.
The incident occurred after City’s 3-3 draw with Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday. During a post-match interview with Amazon Prime, Guardiola was seen with noticeable scratch marks on his forehead, prompting questions about their origin.
Asked by reporters during his news conference about a mark on his nose, Guardiola made a scratching motion and said: “With my finger, my nail.”
The 53-year-old then said “I want to harm myself” before laughing and leaving the news 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 behalf by his official account on X and Instagram.
“My answer was in no way intended to make light of the very serious issue of self-harm.”
The statement added that Guardiola is aware “many people struggle with mental health issues every day” and referenced the Samaritans charity to “highlight one of the ways people can seek help”.
The 3-3 draw against Feyenoord at Etihad Stadium ended Manchester City’s five-game losing streak. However, the club has not secured a win since their 1-0 victory over Southampton on October 26.
Currently, Guardiola’s side sits 15th in the Champions League’s 36-team table and second in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Liverpool, whom they will face at Anfield on Sunday.