Pep Guardiola said Manchester City will always remember the 2020-21 season , adding it was their toughest title-winning campaign amid lockdowns in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic in the years he has managed the side.
Pep Guardiola went on to win his 3rd league title with Manchester City as the Citizens were confirmed as champions after Manchester United lost their league game to Leicester City on Tuesday. With 80 points, 10 more than their nearest rivals, City sealed the league title with 3 matches to go.
Not many would have given Manchester City a chance when they were reeling at the 11th place after 8 games in November in the pandemic-impacted congested season. However, Guardiola turned it around, marshalling his troops well, helping City stitch a winning run of 28 league games. Despite playing without a recognised striker, City have scored the maximum number of goals and Ruben Dias’s arrival made them one of the tightest defensive units in Europe.
“This has been a season and a Premier League title like no other. This was the hardest one. We will always remember this season for the way that we won. I am so proud to be the manager here and of this group of players,” Pep Guardiola said.
“They are so special. To come through this season — with all the restrictions and difficulties we’ve faced — and show the consistency we have is remarkable,” he added.
Guardiola lauded the players for stepping up to the challenge in a gruelling season and credited his team of backroom staff for making sure the players were fueled and motivated throughout the season. This was City’s 3rd Premier League triumph in the last 4 campaigns.
“It is relentless. Every single day, they are there, fighting for success, trying always to be better. They have been so, so resilient,” Guardiola said.
“That is equally true of each and every member of our backroom staff, who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that our players are fully equipped to take on the unexpected challenges and new routines throughout such a turbulent year,” he said.
Premier League most important title for us: Guardiola
While Guardiola is now clearly focused on getting his hands on his first Champions League trophy since his 2011 win with Barcelona, he said there was a real sense of satisfaction in coming out on top on the home front.
“At the start of every season, the Premier League is the most important title for us,” he said.
“This is the one where you have to be there every three days, playing all your rivals home and away. Only by being the very best, week in week out, can you win this competition. It is a huge success.”
