Guardiola bags honorary degree from University of Manchester

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has been awarded an honorary doctorate degree by the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom.

The university recognised Guardiola’s extraordinary contribution to Manchester over nine years on and off the pitch.

At a ceremony in the historic Whitworth Hall on Monday, the manager was presented with an honorary doctorate by the University’s Chancellor, Nazir Afzal.

The award is in honour not only of his sporting success but for his inspirational work away from football, including through his family foundation, the Guardiola Sala Foundation

The coach said: “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.

“When I arrived here in 2016, I did not know how long I would spend here. 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.

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“So, honestly, to be honoured in this way by such an esteemed institution is an amazing feeling.”

The President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Manchester, Professor Duncan Ivison, said: “Pep wasn’t born in Manchester, but like me and so many others, the city has welcomed him and made it feel like home.

“That welcome and the way Manchester gets under your skin is why so many people feel a deep, lifelong connection with the city.”

Guardiola joined City in July 2016, replacing Manuel Pellegrini, following an official announcement by the club in February.

The Spaniard has won 18 trophies at the club, including six Premier League titles, four EFL Cups, two FA Cups, and four Community Shields.

He also guided City to a Champions League title and a FIFA Club World Cup, becoming the most successful manager in the club’s history.

The Star