Iconic Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has added another accolade to his impressive list of achievements after being awarded an honorary Doctorate Degree from the University of Manchester.
The University noted that honour, which was officially conferred on the Spaniard during the ceremony in the historic Whitworth Hall, in Manchester, was ” not only for his sporting success but for his inspirational work away from football, including through his family foundation, the Guardiola Sala Foundation.”
At a ceremony in the historic Whitworth Hall, Pep was presented with an honorary doctorate by the University’s Chancellor, Nazir Afzal. The award is in honour not only of his sporting success but for his inspirational work away from football, including through his family foundation, the Guardiola Sala Foundation.”
Commenting on the honour, Gurdiola, who has become an iconic figure in the English city after helping to spearhead the light blues’ success as a football giant, noted the City’s special place in his life.
“Manchester means so much to me. I have spent nine years here and it has become home. The people, the culture, my incredible football club, my colleagues… it is all so special to me and my family. When I arrived here in 2016, I did not know how long I would spend here. The way this city embraced me made everything easy. My time here has been beautiful.
He continues, “I know how important the University of Manchester is to our city. It’s the home to a lot of research and it has a history of discovery. So, honestly, to be honoured in this way by such an esteemed institution is an amazing feeling. I want to thank everyone at the University of Manchester for this moment – and I want to thank everyone at Manchester City for their constant support.”
Honorary degrees are the highest awards the University can offer. The University recognises remarkable individuals who have made outstanding contributions to society that embody its values, improve the lives of people in local communities or have created a significant impact in their field of work and often far beyond.
Guadilo, who is just one of three managers in club football history to win the European treble of trophies in one season in three different leagues, his most recent with Manchester City, has guided the team to five league titles in the last six years. In the process, they became the first club to win four consecutive Premier League titles.
