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Joe Hart shares his thoughts on Pep Guardiola’s regret and clarifies his stance on Manchester City exit
Rohan Mehta | May 27, 2026 5:51 AM CST

Joe Hart has spoken about the impact Pep Guardiola left on him and addressed whether he harbours any resentment towards the Manchester City manager after his departure from the club.

His comments came shortly after Guardiola admitted feeling regret over not giving the former England goalkeeper a fair chance during his time at Manchester City.

Hart, who played just one match under Guardiola before being sent out on a series of loan spells, reflected on that period of his career and the impression the Spanish manager made on him.

Guardiola, who oversaw his final match for Manchester City on Sunday, told Sky Sports that he carried a long-held regret, admitting, “I didn’t give Joe Hart a chance to be with me, to prove himself and show how good a keeper he was. And I should have done.”

The 55-year-old continued, “You know, life is sometimes — I have to take decisions, and sometimes I am not fair enough.”

Hart, who won the Premier League Golden Glove award three consecutive times between 2010 and 2013, had previously talked about his exit from the club. In a 2020 Instagram Live session, he shared that Guardiola made it clear he was no longer part of his plans.

“Pep was making it very clear that I had to leave Manchester City. The fans made it very clear that it wasn’t their decision that I was leaving,” said Hart.

Hart’s only appearance under Guardiola came in a Champions League qualifier, where he was able to bid farewell to the City fans before moving on loan to Torino and West Ham United, later sealing a permanent transfer to Burnley.

Responding to Guardiola’s recent remarks, Hart expressed appreciation for his former manager and emphasised that he holds no grudges.

“I don't hold grudges. I gave my reasons, he gave his and he's the one with power. I liked him before, I like him now,” said the Manchester City legend.

Hart added, “He’s a superb manager. I felt like I was good enough to at least be given a chance, but that’s football — that’s life.”

He continued, “I didn’t expect Pep’s comments. They meant more to me than I thought they would. My world kept spinning after I left Manchester City, and I’ve had some incredible experiences since.”

Concluding, Hart expressed his gratitude towards the Manchester City supporters and said he looked forward to meeting Guardiola again to shake his hand and thank him for his contribution to the club.


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