- Pep Guardiola’s final match marked the end of an era
- Two former City stars returned for the Etihad farewell
- The supporters received emotional messages
Manchester City’s final fixture of the Pep Guardiola era was always going to extend beyond the result, with several of the club’s most decorated figures reunited at the Etihad Stadium.
The Sky Blues suffered a 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa on Sunday. Unai Emery’s men denied Guardiola a winning ending after ten historic years in charge.
Bernardo Silva and John Stones also made their final appearances for City. Likewise, both players received emotional receptions after being substituted in the second half.
However, the occasion also gave supporters the chance to welcome back two more pivotal members of Guardiola’s most successful squads.
Ilkay Gundogan and Ederson were both in attendance as the club celebrated the figures who have shaped the greatest period in its history.
Ilkay Gundogan and Ederson send emotional Man City messages
Gundogan departed City for Galatasaray last summer after making 358 appearances across two spells at the club.
The German midfielder scored 65 goals and lifted 14 major trophies during his time in Manchester. His brace against Aston Villa in 2022 and his captaincy during City’s Treble-winning year will stay in the fans’ memories forever.
“You gave me everything… You guys gave me everything that I ever wished for in my career, in my life. You guys are family, this is my home, it’s been the privilege of my life,” Gundogan said after the Villa game.
Ederson also returned to the Etihad, having left for Fenerbahce last summer after eight seasons in Manchester. The goalkeeper made 372 appearances for the club, winning 18 major honours.
“It’s so good to be back here to say goodbye to everyone! My mind is fresh about the titles, my years here. I’m really grateful to Man City, and to be back here with my family. I’m really grateful to be part of the club’s history! Thank you,” Ederson said.
Gundogan was the perfect Guardiola player
Likewise, Gundogan was Guardiola’s first signing at the Etihad Stadium. The midfielder operated between the lines and even became one of the Citizens’ most reliable scorers during crucial periods.
Like Bernardo, Gundogan was versatile as he understood several roles and was one of the best examples of the intelligent midfielder that Guardiola needs.
He also became the first Man City captain to win the Champions League when they lifted the trophy in 2023.
Ederson changed what Man City needed from a goalkeeper
Despite being a goalkeeper, Ederson’s contribution to City’s success cannot be measured only through saves or clean sheets.
Nevertheless, he kept 122 Premier League clean sheets in 276 appearances. His range of passing also regularly allowed City to bypass the first line of pressure.
The Brazilian’s composure gave defenders the confidence to continue building from the back in dangerous situations.
All in all, Ederson’s abilities on the ball cannot be overstated, as they allowed City to build from positions very few teams could.
