Michael Jordan leads star tributes at Pep Guardiola farewell party
Basketball legend Michael Jordan led a star-studded cast paying tribute to Pep Guardiola at the outgoing Manchester City manager’s farewell party on Monday.
The 55-year-old announced his departure last week following a glittering decade in charge that yielded 20 major trophies.
Around 19,000 supporters gathered at the Co-Op Live arena in Manchester to bid an emotional goodbye to the iconic tactician.
Sporting royalty pay their respects
Jordan, a six-time NBA champion, surprised attendees with a heartfelt video message played on the venue’s large screens.
“I just wanted to congratulate you on an unbelievable career.”
Michael Jordan
The departing City boss is known to be a passionate basketball fan and a keen golfer.
“Enjoy your retirement. Good luck on the links and keep them straight. Congratulations.”
Michael Jordan
British golfer Tommy Fleetwood also delivered a recorded broadcast to celebrate the managerial great’s achievements.
“It is an honour to call you a friend and congratulations. You have been amazing.”
Tommy Fleetwood
Veteran English boss Neil Warnock joined the chorus of praise, describing the former Barcelona head coach as the best he has ever seen.
Tears, trophies and surprise returns
The grand send-off followed Sunday’s final match of the Premier League season, where the Catalan wept openly after a 2-1 home defeat by Aston Villa.
Earlier in the day, thousands of devoted fans lined the streets of Manchester as the club’s successful men’s, women’s and academy teams paraded their latest silverware.
The open-top buses eventually arrived at the Etihad Stadium before the entourage moved on to the indoor arena for the main celebration.
All 20 trophies won under the outgoing manager’s stewardship were paraded on stage with the help of his three children and former players including Fernandinho and Ederson.
Current Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany and former City midfielder Jack Grealish both made unexpected appearances to roaring cheers from the crowd.
A final emotional sign-off
The evening also featured a shock announcement from City women’s striker Khadija Shaw, who confirmed she has signed a new four-year contract.
The legendary coach concluded the night with an intimate interview conducted by Oasis guitarist and lifelong fan Noel Gallagher.
“First of all, thank you so much for coming tonight to say bye.”
Pep Guardiola
Expressing his profound gratitude, the revered tactician acknowledged the unwavering support from chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and the club’s loyal fanbase.
“I feel tonight that really shows the connection this club has. Always, for the rest of my life, I will…”
Pep Guardiola