Pep Guardiola has been awarded an honorary degree by The University of Manchester, in recognition of his contribution to the city on and off the pitch over the past nine years.
He was presented with the award by the University’s chancellor, Nazir Afzal, in a ceremony at Whitworth Hall.
The award honours not only his sporting success but also his inspirational work away from football, including through his family foundation, the Guardiola Sala Foundation.
After arriving in 2016, Guardiola has led the club through the greatest period in their history, including a run of four straight Premier League league titles and a remarkable Treble in 2023.
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“Manchester means so much to me. I have spent nine years here and it has become home. The people, the culture, my incredible football club, my colleagues… it is all so special to me and my family,” Guardiola said.
“The way this city embraced me made everything easy. My time here has been beautiful.
“I know how important the University of Manchester is to our city. It’s the home to a lot of research and it has a history of discovery. So, honestly, to be honoured in this way by such an esteemed institution is an amazing feeling.”
Professor Duncan Ivison, president and vice-chancellor of the university said: “Pep is an innovator and a winner who has inspired millions of people through his success as a manager. He has played a huge role in making Manchester a global success story.”
BBC Sport
