Ferguson message leaves Guardiola delighted before City exit

“One of the biggest compliments I had was I got a message from Sir Alex Ferguson yesterday and that made me so happy.”

Pep Guardiola said that after Manchester City confirmed his departure, and he added that the message from the Manchester United great was a highlight ahead of his final home game against Aston Villa. He is due to step down this summer, ending a ten-year spell that has brought more than 20 major trophies to the club.

Ferguson’s message to Guardiola

Guardiola said Ferguson contacted him to recognise the standards City have set during his time in charge. “He congratulated me for the trajectory and for what we achieved. It means a lot to me,” Guardiola said.

The City manager also noted the respect between the two men despite the rivalry between their clubs. He has often pointed to Ferguson as the benchmark for longevity and success in the Premier League.

Comparisons with Cruyff

Guardiola linked Ferguson with Johan Cruyff, his mentor, while reflecting on the influences that shaped him. “It’s not to be humble but he is the greatest in this country,” he said. “I’m so happy. I miss Johan Cruyff a lot, I’m happy that Sir Alex, the greatest, could see. I’m pretty sure that Sir Alex will not call us the noisy neighbours again. We are the neighbours, and I’m so happy that he was there to watch us.”

He also said Ferguson’s message came by voicemail. “Well, with his Scottish accent I struggle,” Guardiola said with a smile. “It was a voicemail. I will call him back for sure.”

Respect from the red side

Guardiola confirmed on Friday that he will leave his post this summer. He said the message from Ferguson, sent after the announcement, was a particular point of pride as he prepares for his final bow at the Etihad.

The Catalan coach also said he had beaten Ferguson’s United in two Champions League finals while at Barcelona. He described the acknowledgement from the red side of Manchester as a reminder of his impact on the English game.