Pep Guardiola admitted he was "so tired" and broke down in tears after his legendary 10-year tenure as Manchester City manager concluded with a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa on Sunday. The iconic Spanish tactician, who secured 20 trophies during his historic decade at the Etihad Stadium, insisted that his departure now is the "right decision" for both the club and the players. Guardiola struggled to contain his emotions on the pitch after the final whistle. The match also marked the last for club veterans Bernardo Silva and John Stones.
"I don't cry, but when I saw Bernardo crying, I cried. I told him not to cry, but it happened. It was such a special moment. The emotions were very strong. I will never forget it," Pep stated.
The exhausted manager reflected on his decade at the Etihad.
"I am so tired. Seriously, I am so tired. I did everything. We succeeded. The memories I have from Barcelona and Bayern Munich are unsurpassed, but the baggage of memories I have from here over 10 years is more than anything else," the specialist added.
Since his arrival in the summer of 2016, the Spaniard has managed the team in 593 matches, achieving 423 wins, 77 draws, and 93 losses. He emphasized that human connections are more important than trophies.
"Without the trophies, I would have been sacked, but it's not looking at the trophies in the cabinet at home that makes me happy. What makes me happy are the memories and the connections I've had from day one with the city, with the staff, and with the players," the Spaniard further said.
Despite the emotional farewell, the tactical genius maintained that his departure is best for the club as it transitions into a new era.
"This is the right moment. I won't miss it for a while, that's for sure. Deep down, I feel that the decision is the right one for this club and for the players. Thanks to the club for respecting it, they understood," Guardiola concluded.
The manager leaves having won an astonishing 20 trophies for Manchester City, including six Premier League titles, one Champions League, three FA Cups, and five League Cups.