Pep Guardiola: I like to think my vibe and energy will be there for ever'

Guardiola entered a press setting with humor but quickly faced an extraordinary situation after years of regular media appearances. He described relief connected to John Stones’ departure announcement and said he felt similar emotions. He admitted his earlier speech to players about leaving went poorly, and finding the right words was difficult. He reflected on building a club identity over a decade and said his energy and vibe would remain. Confirmation of his exit came early, followed soon by news that he would stay permanently, marked by the expanded North Stand being named in his honor. He learned about the statue only after a journalist mentioned it and joked about fearing bird poo. He referenced Oasis in a composed fan letter and spoke emotionally about the 2017 Manchester Arena attacks, using words associated with Tony Walsh.

"City's chair, Khaldoon al-Mubarak, had told Guardiola that news on a whirlwind morning and Guardiola learned of his soon-to-be erected statue only when a journalist told him. He fears being covered in bird poo. The pose is yet to be confirmed, but arms outstretched could be top of the list. Oasis were referenced in his composed leaving letter for the fans, because Guardiola is an honorary Mancunian. He talked emotionally of the 2017 Manchester Arena attacks, when his family were at the venue. The Catalan used (almost) the words of the Manchester poet Tony Walsh: This is my place."

Read at www.theguardian.com