Michael Jordan led a host of emotional tributes to Pep Guardiola as the legendary Manchester City manager officially bid farewell to the club after a trophy-filled decade in charge.
Guardiola, 55, recently confirmed he would step down as City manager, ending a remarkable 10-year era that transformed the club into one of Europe’s most dominant football forces.
Around 19,000 supporters gathered at Co-op Live in Manchester for a farewell celebration filled with surprise appearances, heartfelt speeches and emotional video messages honouring Guardiola’s achievements.
Basketball icon Michael Jordan appeared on the arena’s giant screen with a special tribute to the Spanish coach.
“I just wanted to congratulate you on an unbelievable career,” Jordan said.
The six-time NBA champion also joked about Guardiola’s passion for golf, saying: “Enjoy your retirement. Good luck on the links and keep them straight. Congratulations.”
Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany, now manager of Bayern Munich, made a surprise appearance during the event, receiving loud cheers from fans inside the packed arena.
English golfer Tommy Fleetwood also praised Guardiola in a video message.
“You deserve whatever you are about to do next. It is an honour to call you a friend and congratulations. You have been amazing,” Fleetwood said.
Veteran football manager Neil Warnock described Guardiola as the greatest manager he had ever seen.
“I can’t quite believe you are leaving,” Warnock said. “I have seen off so many managers but you are top of the pile. The best manager I have ever seen.”
Earlier in the day, thousands of supporters lined the streets of Manchester as the club’s men’s, women’s and academy teams paraded their trophies through the city before arriving at the farewell venue.
During the celebration, Manchester City women’s striker Khadija Shaw announced she had signed a new four-year contract with the club.
Guardiola’s children later joined former captain Fernandinho, former director Txiki Begiristain and goalkeeper Ederson in presenting the 20 trophies won during Guardiola’s successful reign.
An emotional Guardiola later addressed fans in a conversation with Oasis star Noel Gallagher.
“First of all, thank you so much for coming tonight to say bye,” Guardiola said.
“Thank you so much, I don’t have enough gratitude. Always, for the rest of my life, I will have you in my heart.”
Tributes were also paid to departing players Bernardo Silva and John Stones, while striker Erling Haaland reflected on Guardiola’s legacy at the club.
“It has been an amazing journey, but we need to keep pushing and fighting even without them,” Haaland said.
