Top News

Pep Guardiola has disclosed the contents of an emotional message he received from Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson after the announcement of his departure from Manchester City. The Catalan strategist will conclude a decade of unprecedented success at the Etihad Stadium at the end of the current season.

A tribute from Manchester’s red side

Guardiola confirmed on Friday that he would step down this summer, bringing to an end a ten-year tenure that has delivered more than 20 major titles for the Cityzens. While ex-United left-back Patrice Evra advised fans not to celebrate the news, the most significant gesture of respect came from one of the club’s greatest figures—Sir Alex Ferguson himself.

Speaking before his final home fixture against Aston Villa, Guardiola admitted that receiving a personal message from Ferguson stood out as a particularly meaningful moment. “I know I’ve been very fortunate as a manager and it’s great to be recognised,” Guardiola said. “One of the biggest compliments I’ve ever received was a message from Sir Alex Ferguson yesterday, and it made me incredibly happy.”

Recognition for a decade of dominance

The Catalan coach, who famously defeated Ferguson’s Manchester United in two UEFA Champions League finals during his Barcelona days, elaborated on the message. He explained that the legendary Scotsman had reached out to praise the remarkable standards City had maintained under Guardiola’s leadership.

“He congratulated me for the journey and everything we’ve achieved. It means a lot,” Guardiola shared. The mutual admiration between the two has remained strong despite their clubs’ intense rivalry, with Guardiola often describing Ferguson as the ultimate reference point for endurance and success in English football.

Shared comparisons with Johan Cruyff

Reflecting on his inspirations, Guardiola drew parallels between Ferguson and his mentor Johan Cruyff. Though Cruyff is no longer alive to witness Guardiola’s achievements, the City boss expressed gratitude that Ferguson has been able to see the transformation of City into a European powerhouse.

“I’m not saying this out of modesty, but he’s the greatest in this country,” Guardiola said. “I miss Johan Cruyff deeply, but I’m so happy that Sir Alex, the greatest, got to see it. I’m quite sure he won’t call us the noisy neighbours anymore. We’re the neighbours, and I’m glad he’s been there to witness it.”

The challenge of Ferguson’s Scottish accent

In a lighter moment during the press conference, Guardiola shared that Ferguson’s message had actually come through as a voicemail. The ex-Barcelona manager joked that he had a bit of trouble understanding parts of it because of Ferguson’s famously strong Scottish accent.

“With his Scottish accent, I have to admit I struggled a bit,” Guardiola said with a grin. “It was a voicemail, but I’ll definitely call him back.” As Guardiola gets ready for his final appearance at the Etihad, the message from Manchester’s red half stands as a fitting reminder of his extraordinary influence on English football.