Pep Guardiola says he did not “intend to make light” of self-harm after answering a question about scratches on his face and head.
The Manchester City manager could be seen with a scratched nose during his side’s 3-3 draw against Feyenoord in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
Asked about the scratch during a post-match press conference, along with others that could be seen on his head, the Spaniard said: “Yeah, [it’s from] my finger… with my nail,” and gestured with his hand how it would have happened.
Then he added with a smile: “I want to harm myself.”
The comment received some backlash on social media, leading Guardiola to clarify what he meant.
In an Instagram post, he wrote: “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.
“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.”
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The match, which saw the Man City throw away a three-goal lead at home, continued a frustrating period for the Premier League champions which has seen them lose five out of six games in all competitions.
