Mansion Sports – Pep Guardiola admitted that he was “very tired” and shed tears after his legendary 10-year tenure as Manchester City manager came to an end with a 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa on Sunday.

The iconic Spanish coach, who won 20 trophies during a historic decade at the Etihad Stadium, stated that leaving at this moment was “the right decision” for both the club and the players.

Guardiola Delivers Emotional Farewell to Manchester

Guardiola struggled to hold back his emotions on the pitch after the final whistle was blown. The match also marked the final appearance for senior club players Bernardo Silva and John Stones.

Although City had taken a 1-0 lead through Antoine Semenyo’s 11th goal since his move from Bournemouth in January, Unai Emery’s Aston Villa managed to come back.

Two second-half goals from Ollie Watkins ensured that the Europa League champions spoiled the farewell celebration by securing a 2-1 victory.

Commenting on the tearful farewell moment, the manager said: “I was not crying, but when I saw Bernardo crying I started crying. I said do not cry but it happened. It was a very special moment. The emotions were so high. I will never forget it.”

The Exhausted Manager Reflects on a Decade at the Etihad

Reflecting on his departure after a historic decade leading the team, Guardiola openly expressed his exhaustion.

He said: “I am very tired. Seriously, I am very tired. I have done everything. We have done it. The memories I have from Barcelona and Bayern Munich are irreplaceable, but the collection of memories I have from here over 10 years is greater than anywhere else.”

Since arriving in the summer of 2016, the Spaniard led 593 matches, recording 423 wins, 77 draws, and 93 defeats.

He emphasized that human relationships mean more than trophies, adding: “Without trophies I might have been sacked, but it is not seeing trophies in the cabinet at home that makes me happy. What makes me happy are the memories and the relationships I have had since the first day with this city, the staff behind the scenes, and the players.”

Leaving at the Right Time for City

Although the farewell was emotional, the tactician insisted that his departure was the best decision for the Premier League giants as they enter a new era.

Guardiola explained: “This is the right time. I will not miss it for a while, that is for sure. I feel very deeply that this decision is the right decision for this club and the players. I thank the club for respecting it, they understand.”

The manager leaves Manchester City after delivering an extraordinary 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles, one Champions League, three FA Cups, and five League Cups.

What Comes Next for Guardiola

Looking ahead, Guardiola intends to take a long break from football to recover after this exhausting yet brilliant decade.

Although he insists that he will not miss football for some time, his remarkable managerial record ensures that he will not be short of admirers when the time comes for him to return to the touchline.