Two guards of honour for players going off in a game. A game, the final one of the season, and the last one under the stewardship of Josep “Pep” Guardiola Sala: one that would fade to memories for the final dose of football but live on for the best gaffer in the land and all the world. A decade of emotions from losses to evolution to triumph.

After a deserved wait, a huge guard of honour at full time came for former players (Gundogan and Ederson) returning to receive a proper farewell. Then for the outgoing club legends John Stones and Bernardo Silva. Each as decorated as their manager. Each battlers and proud servants of the badge, colours, and Manchester. Their football did the talking and if clearing a ball with 11mm to spare shows you anything: the boys in blue never give in.

Pep Guardiola bowed out with his 95 year old Dad present. Pep has mentioned his mother passing away previously and the support fans and the club gave him. Video messages from former club custodian Manuel Akanji, and others, mentioned the camaraderie and protection for incoming players. Hats off to anyone who can tolerate Mancunian weather – having come from warmer climates! The message was clear, City are more than a football club. You see it with the youth and women’s teams. Manchester City is a family. Now the Guardiola name will brandish the North Stand. A tie for life.

The farewell ceremony’s incredible atmosphere capped a fine period of football stretching back to 2016. No manager has had such an impact on English football or enjoyed such a send off. The Noisy Neighbours may say otherwise and much will be debated, written, and accolades given. The Mancunian Way should be closed and a police escort to allow Pep and family to drive out undisturbed on his next adventure. What a journey!

I can’t believe all the skriking about something players on the field wanted to be part of. I have never seen this guards of honour going off the field once, let alone twice. Those feelings will stick with both sets of players, fans, and be seen by youngsters. Who wouldn’t want to be like Bernardo or Stones after their career?! What an example of sportsmanship and love for the game. The officiating even spotted the moment and I’m sure VAR edited Foden’s cheeks out of line with the guard of honour.

The only way to end is with the honours earned since Pep took over. Practically mad levels of rewards. It speaks for itself. The human side has done plenty of speaking and has been felt throughout the stands week after week. We’ve experienced some of the best football ever: a treble, domestic doubles, 100 points, and lovely trophy parades. So, what now?

Premier League x 6

2017–18, 2018–19, 2020–21, 2021–22, 2022–23, 2023–24 (4 in a row)

FA Cup x 3

2018–19, 2022–23, 2025–26

EFL League Cup x 5

2017–18, 2018–19, 2019–20, 2020–21 (4 in a row), 2025–26

FA Community Shield x 3

2018, 2019, 2024

UEFA Champions League

2022–23

UEFA Super Cup

2023

FIFA Club World Cup

2023

Monday’s after party:

The event lasted too long yet just the right amount of content. Nothing felt out of place and it celebrated players and Pep leaving, showcased our Youth and Women’s team, whilst giving a platform to coaches, backroom staff and can opportunity for our fans to cheer and see the spectacle.

Lining trophies up interwoven amongst club legends past, present, Pep’s family and playing out to a backdrop of local musical brothers and their banging tunes sent the energy higher than any forced chant. Doves ticked all the boxes. Mike Summerbee and Vincent Kompany, alongside a variety of legends, family, and coaches carried in each of Pep’s 20 trophies. The Coop Live bounced.

Now, what’s the name of my new favourite Catalan band? Manel? Must add that song to my Pep era list. It’s been a blast.