Arabic version: نجوم يحتفلون ببيب غوارديولا في حفلة وداع عاطفية

Basketball legend Michael Jordan led the star-studded lineup at Pep Guardiola’s farewell party, celebrating the Manchester City manager’s illustrious career. Guardiola, 55, announced his departure after a decade in charge, having guided the club to 20 trophies during his tenure.

According to BBC News, the farewell event took place at Co-Op Live arena, attended by 19,000 supporters. Jordan, via a video message, congratulated Guardiola and wished him well in retirement, highlighting Guardiola’s fondness for basketball.

Other tributes came from British golfer Tommy Fleetwood and veteran manager Neil Warnock, both praising Guardiola’s remarkable career. Warnock described him as the best manager he has ever seen.

Earlier in the day, thousands of Manchester City fans lined the streets to bid farewell to Guardiola, who concluded his tenure with a poignant 2-1 home defeat to Aston Villa, a match in which he broke down in tears. Guardiola expressed deep gratitude to the fans during the farewell event, emphasizing the strong connection he felt with the club.

The celebration also recognized current players Bernardo Silva and John Stones, who are set to leave the club this summer. Striker Erling Haaland shared his appreciation for Guardiola and his departing teammates, marking the end of an era for Manchester City.