Pep Guardiola was close to tears as he paid an emotional tribute to Jurgen Klopp after the German manager’s final game in charge of Liverpool. The two bosses have shared a respectful rivalry over the years, with Liverpool having been Manchester City’s closest challengers for the majority of Klopp’s time in charge.
The outgoing Reds boss was honoured by the Anfield faithful on the final day of the Premier League season, overseeing a victory over Wolves in his last game in charge. Earlier this week, Klopp was quizzed on Guardiola and had some kind words for the Spaniard as he described him as the best coach on the planet.
“He’s the best manager in the world,” said Klopp. “If you put any other manager in that club, they don’t win the league four times in a row. That’s down to him and his team.”
Guardiola was asked for his thoughts on Klopp’s comments after City clinched the title by beating West Ham and was nearly moved to tears as he spoke of his admiration for his German rival.
“I will miss him a lot,” said Guardiola, before pausing to regain his composure. “He really has been an important part of my life. I think we respect each other incredibly. I have a feeling that he will be back and I just want to say thank you so much for his words.
“He knows personally that behind me, there are a lot of things that this club provides me and gives to me. Otherwise, alone, I cannot do it. I’m humble enough to understand completely. He helps me so many times.
“He helps me with his team and he’s been a huge competitor in my life. In many moments, I didn’t discover the way I can punish them like I can find for other teams. It’s so difficult. I wish him all the best. I didn’t see his final game but I hope it was special for him because he deserves it.
“People say: ‘How many titles did you win?’. It’s not just about that. Of course, it’s important, but it’s not just about that. They are personalities. When they stay in one place, they stay there forever. The level with Bill Shankly, Bob Paisley and the other legends, Jurgen will be there.”
Guardiola and Klopp have faced each other more than they have faced any other manager in their careers, a total of 30 times. They have shared a touchline in the Premier League on 16 occasions, with City winning five games, Liverpool winning four and the other seven matches finishing as draws.
