Guardiola Bids Emotional Farewell to Manchester City After Decade in Charge
Pep Guardiola bade farewell to players and fans of Manchester City after his side’s 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Speaking during his post-match press conference, the Spaniard said he was leaving with memories that meant more to him than the titles he won with the club.
Guardiola stated that the relationships and connections he built during his decade-long spell at City would define his time at the club more than the silverware.
“The luggage of memories I put inside is more than any other,” he said.
“Without 20 trophies they would have sacked me before, but you are not at home looking at trophies and saying, ‘Oh, how happy I am.’
“I don’t know how to explain the connection I had from day one with the city, but especially with the back-room staff and the players. I know we were connected.”
Guardiola singled out captain Bernardo Silva and defender John Stones, who are also leaving the club.
“I don’t cry, but when I see Bernardo cry, I cry. It was such a special moment with Bernie. He said to me, ‘I’m so tired, I cannot run.’ The emotions were so important today with John,” Guardiola added.
Guardiola’s 95-year-old father was present at the Etihad to witness his son’s final match in charge of the club.
Guardiola was announced as City manager on February 1, 2016. During his time at the club, he won 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles.
He also led Manchester City to their first treble during the 2022/23 season, winning the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League.
