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Jordan leads star names at Guardiola leaving party
TL;DR
Michael Jordan led a star-studded farewell for Pep Guardiola at his retirement party, attended by 19,000 fans. Guardiola, who won 20 trophies in a decade with Manchester City, announced his departure last week.
Key points
- Michael Jordan led the farewell for Pep Guardiola
- Guardiola announced his departure after a decade
- The event was attended by 19,000 supporters
- Jordan congratulated Guardiola via video message
- Guardiola won 20 trophies with Manchester City
Mentioned in this story
Pep GuardiolaMichael JordanVincent KompanyManchester City
Basketball legend Michael Jordan led the cast of star names to pay tribute to Pep Guardiola at the Manchester City manager's farewell party.
Guardiola, 55, announced last week he will step down as City manager following a decade in charge, leading the club to 20 trophies during his tenure.
Jordan, one of the NBA's all-time greats, and City's former captain Vincent Kompany were surprise participants in Guardiola's send-off at Co-Op Live arena, which was attended by 19,000 supporters.
"I just wanted to congratulate you on an unbelievable career," said Chicago Bulls legend Jordan via a video message played on the big screen inside the venue.
Guardiola is known to be fond of basketball as well as being a keen golfer and Jordan added: "Enjoy your retirement. Good luck on the links and keep them straight. Congratulations."
British golfer Tommy Fleetwood also delivered a video message, saying: "You deserve whatever you are about to do next.
"It is an honour to call you a friend and congratulations. You have been amazing."
Veteran manager Neil Warnock added: "I can't quite believe you are leaving. I have seen off so many managers but you are top of the pile.
"The best manager I have ever seen."
Guardiola's final game in charge came in Sunday's 2-1 home defeat by Aston Villa, a match in which the Spaniard broke down in tears.
Earlier on Monday, thousands of City fans lined the streets of Manchester to bid a final farewell to the departing Guardiola.
This season's successful men's, women's and academy teams were driven on buses to Etihad Stadium, where they were greeted by a waiting crowd, before the entourage made its way to Co-Op Live for the 'after party'.
All three teams celebrated their trophy victories on stage, with City women's striker Khadija Shaw making the shock announcement that she has signed a new four-year contract to remain at the club.
Guardiola's three children, as well as former captain Fernandinho, ex-sporting director Txiki Begiristain and goalkeeper Ederson, who left last summer, helped bring out all 20 trophies won under Guardiola.
Surprise appearances made by current Bayern Munich boss Kompany and midfielder Jack Grealish, who spent season-long loan spell at , were loudly cheered by those in attendance.
Q&A
Why did Pep Guardiola have a farewell party?
Pep Guardiola announced he will step down as Manchester City manager after a decade in charge.
Who attended Pep Guardiola's farewell party?
The farewell party featured star names including Michael Jordan and former City captain Vincent Kompany.
What did Michael Jordan say to Pep Guardiola at the party?
Michael Jordan congratulated Guardiola on his career and wished him luck in retirement through a video message.
How many trophies did Pep Guardiola win with Manchester City?
Pep Guardiola won a total of 20 trophies during his tenure as Manchester City manager.
