The legendary Michael Jordan was among a host of stars who showed their appreciation for Pep Guardiola at the farewell party for the Manchester City manager.
Guardiola, aged 55, revealed last week that he would be stepping down as manager after a decade at the helm, during which he led the team to a remarkable 20 trophies.
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Jordan, an all-time NBA great, and former City captain Vincent Kompany made surprise appearances at Guardiola’s send-off, which took place at the Co-Op Live arena in front of 19,000 fans.
“I just wanted to congratulate you on an incredible career,” Jordan said in a video message displayed on the big screen.
Guardiola, who has a passion for basketball and enjoys golfing, was also wished well by Jordan: “Enjoy your retirement. Best of luck on the golf course and keep it straight. Congratulations.”
Golfing star Tommy Fleetwood shared his sentiments in a video too: “You deserve everything that lies ahead.”
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“It’s an honor to call you a friend. Congratulations on your amazing career,” he added.
Veteran coach Neil Warnock remarked: “I can’t believe you’re leaving. I’ve seen many managers come and go, but you’re at the top of the list. The best manager I’ve ever seen.”
Guardiola’s last match in charge was a 2-1 loss at home to Aston Villa on Sunday, a game in which he was visibly emotional.
Earlier that day, thousands of City supporters gathered on the streets of Manchester to bid Guardiola farewell.
This season’s successful men’s, women’s, and academy teams were paraded on buses to the Etihad Stadium, where they were greeted by cheering fans, before heading to Co-Op Live for the celebration.
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All three teams took to the stage to celebrate their titles, with City women’s striker Khadija Shaw announcing a new four-year contract to stay with the club.
Guardiola’s children, along with former captain Fernandinho, former sporting director Txiki Begiristain, and goalkeeper Ederson (who transferred last summer) were also present to showcase the 20 trophies won during Guardiola’s tenure.
Surprise guests included current Bayern Munich manager Kompany, and midfielder Jack Grealish, who previously had a season-long loan at Everton, who received a warm welcome from the attendees.
Guardiola bid farewell in a final interview with Oasis’ Noel Gallagher.
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“First of all, thank you so much for coming tonight to say goodbye,” said Guardiola.
“This evening truly reflects the connection this club has. I am eternally grateful to City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, the staff, and all the fans who have been with us from the start.”
“Thank you very much; I’ll always hold this in my heart.”
Tributes were also extended to departing captain Bernardo Silva and defender John Stones, both of whom will also be departing the club at the end of the season.
Striker Erling Haaland took the stage to express: “It has been a pleasure playing alongside Bernardo and John – and of course Pep.”
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“We’ve won many trophies, and I cherish playing with them because they are incredible footballers and even better people. It’s been an extraordinary journey, and we must continue to push forward and strive for success even without them.”
Guardiola bid farewell during an interview with Noel Gallagher [Getty Images]
Stones and Silva are parting ways with City along with Guardiola [Getty Images]
City fans celebrated Guardiola at Manchester’s Co-Op Live arena [Getty Images]