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Pep Guardiola expressed deep emotion after Manchester City confirmed that the newly redeveloped North Stand at the Etihad Stadium will be renamed ‘The Pep Guardiola Stand’ as a permanent tribute to their legendary manager.

The club made the announcement ahead of Sunday’s final Premier League match of the season against Aston Villa – Guardiola’s last game in charge after a decade of unprecedented success at the Etihad. The tribute ensures that the legacy of the most successful manager in City’s history will remain an enduring part of the stadium’s identity.

The decision follows Friday’s confirmation of Guardiola’s departure, with Enzo Maresca set to take over on an initial three-year contract. Alongside the stand renaming, the club also revealed plans to commission a statue to commemorate Guardiola’s remarkable ten-year spell in Manchester.

Speaking at his final pre-match press conference at the City Football Academy, Guardiola admitted he was overwhelmed by the gesture. “Oh God, speechless, no words! What can I say?! No words,” he said. “I like to feel that my vibe or my energy will be there forever, I like that feeling.”

He continued, “In the bad moments, if someone looks there and remembers Pep, I will send good energy to the team, to the club. It’s the most incredible or huge honour I can get! I can only say thank you so much to the club.”

The image of Guardiola sending “good energy” from a stand that bears his name is a poignant one — a symbolic reflection of a man whose influence has transformed the club and who finds solace in knowing a part of him will remain long after his departure.

Guardiola also revealed that his 94-year-old father, Valenti, will be present for his final match as Manchester City manager. “It’s an incredible honour to have my name in this beautiful place (on the Etihad Stadium’s North Stand) – I have no words,” he said.

Sharing his feelings further in conversation with Sky Sports, Guardiola added, “I’m happy that on Sunday, maybe, my father will realise how much people love his son – wow! That is really special for me.”

City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and chief executive Ferran Soriano have both publicly expressed their gratitude for Guardiola’s monumental contribution. The renaming of the stand and the commissioning of the statue underline the club’s intention to preserve his legacy in the most enduring way possible.

The Pep Guardiola Stand will stand as a lasting reminder of a decade that reshaped Manchester City – transforming them from occasional challengers into the dominant force in both English and European football.

During Guardiola’s tenure, the club secured six Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League crown, and multiple FA Cups and Carabao Cups – achievements that have redefined the modern era of the game since his arrival in 2016.

Sunday’s farewell game against Aston Villa will also mark the last appearances for Bernardo Silva and John Stones in City colours, adding further emotion to an already momentous occasion. Monday’s open-top bus parade will officially close the season – but The Pep Guardiola Stand will remain as a permanent symbol of his transformative reign.