Jordan leads star names at Guardiola leaving party

Pep Guardiola stepped down as Manchester City manager after a decade in charge that produced 20 trophies. A farewell event at Co-Op Live drew 19,000 supporters and included surprise appearances from basketball legend Michael Jordan and former City captain Vincent Kompany. Jordan sent a video message congratulating Guardiola on an unbelievable career and wishing him well in retirement and golf. Tommy Fleetwood also delivered a video message praising Guardiola and calling him a friend. Neil Warnock praised Guardiola as the best manager he had ever seen. Guardiola’s final match ended in a 2-1 home defeat to Aston Villa, where he broke down in tears. Earlier, thousands of fans lined Manchester streets for a final farewell, and City teams celebrated trophy wins before the after party.

"“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 ca"

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