Michael Jordan leads tributes at Guardiola farewell event

Basketball legend Michael Jordan led tributes to Pep Guardiola as Manchester City held a farewell event for the departing manager after his decade-long spell at the club.

 

Guardiola, 55, recently announced his decision to step down as City manager, ending a 10-year tenure that produced 20 trophies and established the club as a dominant force in English and European football.

 

About 19,000 supporters reportedly gathered at Co-op Live for the event, which featured speeches, video messages and appearances by former players and sporting figures.

 

Jordan appeared via video message to congratulate Guardiola on his achievements.

 

“I just wanted to congratulate you on an unbelievable career,” Jordan said.

 

The six-time NBA champion also referenced Guardiola’s interest in golf.

 

“Enjoy your retirement. Good luck on the links and keep them straight. Congratulations,” he added.

 

Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany, now Bayern Munich manager, also appeared at the event, while English golfer Tommy Fleetwood praised Guardiola’s impact.

 

“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 also commended Guardiola’s influence on the game.

 

“I can’t quite believe you are leaving. I have seen off so many managers but you are top of the pile. The best manager I have ever seen,” Warnock said.

 

Earlier, Manchester City’s men’s, women’s and academy teams paraded trophies through the city before arriving at the venue.

 

During the event, City women’s striker Khadija Shaw announced she had signed a new four-year contract with the club.

 

Guardiola was joined by family members and former players as trophies won during his time at City were presented.

 

Addressing supporters, Guardiola thanked fans for their support throughout his time at the club.

 

“Thank you so much. I don’t have enough gratitude. Always, for the rest of my life, I will have you in my heart,” he said.

 

Tributes were also paid to departing players Bernardo Silva and John Stones, while striker Erling Haaland described Guardiola’s era as “an amazing journey.”