Jordan Leads A-List Tributes At Guardiola's Farewell Part

Basketball icon Michael Jordan headlined an array of star names paying tribute to Pep Guardiola at the Manchester City manager’s farewell party.

Guardiola, 55, announced last week that he will step down after a decade at the helm, during which he has guided the club to an impressive 20 trophies.

Jordan, regarded as one of the NBA’s all-time greats, and former City captain Vincent Kompany were unexpected guests at Guardiola’s send-off, held at the Co-Op Live arena, which welcomed 19,000 supporters.

“I just wanted to congratulate you on an incredible career,” said Chicago Bulls legend Jordan in a video message played on the big screen at the venue.

Guardiola, known for his passion for basketball and golf, received well-wishes from Jordan: “Enjoy your retirement. Good luck on the links and keep them straight. Congratulations.”

British golfer Tommy Fleetwood also shared a video message, stating: “You deserve whatever comes next. It is an honour to call you a friend. Congratulations on being amazing.”

Veteran manager Neil Warnock expressed disbelief at Guardiola’s departure: “I can’t quite believe you are leaving. I have seen off many managers, but you are the best of the bunch. The best manager I have ever witnessed.”

Guardiola’s final match in charge ended in a 2-1 home defeat to Aston Villa on Sunday, a game that saw the Spaniard visibly emotional.