Pep Guardiola has been named Manager of the Year by the League Manager’s Association after the unique 2020/21 Premier League season.
It’s the second time that the Manchester City manager has won the prize having won it for the first time at the conclusion of City’s 2017/18 “Centurions” season.
This time the Catalan has led his side to a third Premier League title in four seasons alongside a fourth consecutive League Cup in the middle of physically challenging pandemic.
And on Saturday, Guardiola will lead his players out at the Estadio do Dragao in Portugal as they contest City’s first ever Champions League final.
Speaking after he was presented with the trophy, Guardiola said: “I am delighted to win this award for the second time, but an award like this is only possible if a manager is surrounded by top professionals.
“My players have been fantastic – their dedication and professionalism never waver, even in a season that has been the most challenging we have ever faced.
“And my staff are also deserving of the highest praise.
“I am so lucky to have a team of people who give everything they have every single day to make sure Manchester City are the best we can be.
“This award is dedicated to and shared with them.”
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Pep deserves this award, absolutely.
To win the Premier League and Carabao Cup, as well as reach the final Champions League final, in the most trying season we’ve ever seen, says everything about his quality as a manager.
“He has shown an outstanding ability to constantly innovate. With the challenges presented by COVID-19, he’s had to adapt to a new way of working. He’s done it brilliantly and our results say everything you need to know
“And it isn’t just the results – the way we have played has been fantastic. The style of football is exactly what we want from a Manchester City team.”
Sir Alex Ferguson, whose name adorns the trophy, paid his own tribute to Guardiola, and said: “Winning the Premier League and taking a team to the Champions League final is a wonderful achievement.
“The way your team plays football deserves the recognition that you are getting.
“On a personal note, I would like to thank you for your valuable support of the League Managers Association which is much appreciated by your fellow LMA members.”