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Michael Jordan Joins Star Tribute at Pep Guardiola's Emotional Man City Farewell

BBC Sport Football •
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Basketball icon Michael Jordan headlined a galaxy of sporting stars at Pep Guardiola's Manchester City farewell celebration on Monday. Thousands of supporters lined Manchester's streets as the men's, women's and academy teams paraded their trophies toward the Etihad Stadium before moving to Co-Op Live for the evening festivities.

Women's striker Khadija Shaw used the occasion to announce a new four-year contract extension, providing a rare piece of positive transfer news amid the departures. Guardiola's three children joined former captain Fernandinho, ex-sporting director Txiki Begiristain and goalkeeper Ederson to present all 20 trophies won during the Catalan's tenure. Surprise appearances from Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany and loaned midfielder Jack Grealish drew loud cheers from the assembled crowd.

In an emotional interview with Oasis legend Noel Gallagher, Guardiola thanked fans for their unwavering support throughout his nine-year reign. Captain Bernardo Silva and defender John Stones, both leaving this summer, received special tributes alongside the departing manager. Erling Haaland hailed his departing teammates as amazing people and even better footballers.

Guardiola exits as one of football's most decorated managers, having transformed City into a global powerhouse with unprecedented domestic and European success.