Pep Guardiola has vowed to reach out to his successor as he prepares to pass on the managerial duties at Manchester City.
Guardiola managed City for the last time during their Premier League campaign, which concluded with a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
After a glorious decade that saw him secure 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League, Guardiola exits following a season where he led the team to a domestic cup double and a second-place finish in the league.
Enzo Maresca, Guardiola’s former assistant who was dismissed by Chelsea in January, is the leading candidate to take over.
“When the club informs me who it is, I will certainly reach out to him,” Guardiola said. “I will advise him to be true to himself, and that the club will fully support him.”
“That’s the greatest compliment, or perhaps the greatest fortune, all the managers here have received. You will be better shielded in tough times than at any other club.”
“Be authentic, embrace your freedom, pursue your ideas. Put in the effort and everything will go well.”
Although news of Guardiola’s exit leaked early last week, the club only confirmed it on Friday.
Planning his departure for some time, the 55-year-old stated his intention to take an extended break from football.
“I was at home yesterday, and I didn’t have any furniture. My place was almost completely empty, with just a bed to sleep on,” he shared.
“I’ve already come to terms with it. After a few weeks, it’s all processed.”
On the pitch, City took the lead in the 23rd minute thanks to Antoine Semenyo, but Villa turned the match around with two goals from Ollie Watkins in the second half.
However, the result was overshadowed by the significance of the day, as long-serving players Bernardo Silva and John Stones also said their goodbyes.
Both were honored with guards of honour by players from both sides when they were substituted in the second half.
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Stones, who joined City in the same summer as Guardiola, remarked: “Reflecting on my younger days playing on the streets, I never imagined I would win this many trophies.”
“It’s incredible, and we’ve set a standard for this club. I hope that when I return to watch from the stands, they can recreate some amazing moments.”
Silva, who signed with City in 2017, expressed his gratitude towards Guardiola.
“Pep is the reason behind our success. He was leading the way, making pivotal decisions and building this remarkable team. Personally, he’s like a father figure in football to me, and I genuinely believe he’s the greatest manager ever.”