UCL Final: Pep Guardiola Reveals Message Sent by Sir Alex Ferguson before Inter Showdown

Pep Guardiola expressed his gratitude for being included in the esteemed company of Sir Alex Ferguson. The Spaniard concluded an exceptional season with Manchester City by defeating Inter Milan in the Champions League final. Manchester City now joins local rivals Manchester United as the only two teams to have achieved a treble.

Pep Guardiola acknowledged his “honour” at being one of the two managers who have won a treble with English clubs, alongside Sir Alex Ferguson. On Saturday, June 10, City triumphed over Inter Milan, securing the club’s maiden Champions League trophy. Rodri’s second-half goal proved decisive in sinking the Nerazzurri, completing Guardiola’s remarkable three-week journey that saw his team clinch the Premier League, FA Cup, and now the Champions League.

The last time an English team accomplished this feat was in 1999 when Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United side etched their names in history.

Reflecting on his achievement, which mirrored Ferguson’s, Guardiola shared his thoughts with Sky Sports, stating, “I am eagerly looking forward to being on the bus with the three trophies. It is an honor for me to be compared to Sir Alex Ferguson, who sent me a message this morning (Saturday). I was deeply moved, and it was truly delightful.”

Guardiola’s Tenure as City Manager

Since assuming the role of Manchester City manager in 2016, Guardiola has experienced an extraordinary tenure, claiming 12 trophies along the way. However, it is perhaps the treble in the 2022/23 season that holds special significance for the Spaniard. Guardiola believes that it was “destined” for his team to eventually secure the Champions League title after falling short on numerous occasions.

“At times, it seemed like this year’s competition, this final, was written in the stars. The goal, the chances they had, and Ederson’s crucial save in extra time where we could have lost the game,” he added.