Pep Guardiola releases statement ahead of Liverpool showdown and says 'I was caught off guard'

Pep Guardiola has released a statement apologising for the answer he gave to a question about the cuts and scratch marks on his face in his post-match interview on Tuesday. The Manchester City boss admitted he 'was caught off guard', with his side to play Liverpool next in the Premier League.

Stuck in a crisis, City's suffering continued in the Champions League this midweek as they were held by Arne Slot's former side Feyenoord at the Etihad Stadium. Rather than the draw itself coming as the latest set-back in a six-game winless streak, it was the manner in which they conceded three times in the final 15 minutes that dampened spirits even more.

Afterwards, Guardiola undertook his regular media duties though he did so with a visible cut across his nose and red scratch marks on his forehead.

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"With my finger, yeah, with my nail," the 53-year-old explained when asked where the marks had come from in his press conference, before mimicking the scrape along his nose which caused the wound. He then added with a smile: "I want to harm myself, yeah."

Now the City boss has released a statement on Wednesday morning clarifying the comment with an update to his official Instagram 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," it read.

"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 people can seek help, by calling the Samaritans hotline on 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org."

Guardiola is now preparing his side for a visit to Anfield in the Premier League on Sunday. After their defeat to Tottenham last weekend and Liverpool's victory over Southampton, the Reds have the opportunity to open up an 11-point gap on the reigning champions.

If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123.

Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch.