Michael Jordan leads tributes to Pep Guardiola as Manchester City fans and football stars celebrate the manager’s trophy-filled decade

Basketball legend Michael Jordan led a host of tributes to departing Pep Guardiola as thousands of supporters gathered to celebrate the Manchester City manager’s remarkable decade-long tenure at the club.

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Guardiola, 55, recently announced his decision to step down as manager of Manchester City, ending a highly successful spell that yielded 20 trophies and established the club among Europe’s elite.

More than 19,000 fans attended a farewell celebration at Co-op Live, where emotional speeches, surprise appearances and video messages highlighted Guardiola’s impact on Manchester City and world football.

Among the most memorable moments was a special video tribute from Jordan, who congratulated Guardiola on what he described as an extraordinary managerial career.

“I just wanted to congratulate you on an unbelievable career,” Jordan said in a message shown on the arena’s giant screen.

The six-time NBA champion also referenced Guardiola’s well-known passion for golf, wishing him success in retirement and encouraging him to enjoy life beyond football.

Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany, now manager of Bayern Munich, made a surprise appearance at the event and received a warm reception from supporters.

English golfer Tommy Fleetwood also paid tribute, describing Guardiola as both a friend and an inspiration.

Veteran football manager Neil Warnock praised Guardiola’s influence on the sport, calling him the finest manager he had witnessed during his lifetime in football.

Earlier in the day, Manchester City’s men’s, women’s and academy teams paraded their trophies through the city before joining supporters at the farewell event.

Another notable moment came when City women’s striker Khadija Shaw announced a new four-year contract with the club.

Guardiola’s children joined former captain Fernandinho, former director Txiki Begiristain and goalkeeper Ederson in presenting the 20 trophies won during Guardiola’s reign.

Addressing the crowd during an emotional interview with Noel Gallagher, Guardiola thanked supporters for their unwavering backing throughout his time at the club.

“Thank you so much, I don’t have enough gratitude. Always, for the rest of my life, I will have you in my heart,” he said.

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Tributes were also paid to departing players Bernardo Silva and John Stones, while striker Erling Haaland reflected on Guardiola’s enduring legacy and urged the team to continue striving for success in the years ahead.