I need hugs and kisses! The full version of Guardiola's farewell speech in the City dressing room revealed
Guardiola's words are sure to touch even the most hardened fans.
Details: The full, emotional speech Pep Guardiola delivered to Manchester City’s players ahead of the 2025/26 season finale has surfaced online. It was in this moment that the Spaniard first told the squad he would be leaving the club after a decade at the helm.
Guys, this will be quick. Sunday will be my last match as manager of this club. The reason is simple: to go to Selhurst Park, to Anfield, to play League One sides in the FA Cup, to travel to Madrid, Madrid, Madrid, and to work with our wonderful players, you need something I once had—energy. But deep down, I know I no longer have it, Guardiola said.
I leave with immense gratitude and happiness for each of you. In a few minutes, the fans will find out about my decision, but you deserved to hear it first. I need hugs and kisses. Don’t forget that, Pep added.
Remarkably, Guardiola later admitted that his address to the team was disastrous, as he was more nervous than ever in his life. On May 24, City played their final match under Pep against Aston Villa, and the club announced that the Etihad’s north stand would be renamed in his honor and a statue of him would be erected at the stadium.
It’s worth noting that in his ten years at Manchester City, Guardiola captured 20 major trophies and capped his final season with a domestic cup double—winning both the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup.
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Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
