Man City boss Pep Guardiola to be handed same Manchester honour as United legend

Man City boss Pep Guardiola is set to be awarded the Freedom of the City. 

The honour will recognise his side’s historic Treble last season and the Spaniard’s remarkable tenure at the club.  Legendary ex-Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson was bestowed with the same honour back in 1999 when his United side clinched the Treble.

Council bosses said they’d do the same if City repeated the feat – and have stuck to their word. It’s now just up to Pep to accept.

Town hall leader Bev Craig said: “Freedom of the City is a great honour – for people that have contributed to city life and the city’s reputation. Manchester awarded Sir Alex Ferguson freedom of the city in 1999, and the council was clear that if Manchester City and Pep Guardiola would receive the same honour when they won the historic Treble.

“The council have been in private discussions around making this happen as per our normal protocols, and will be making further announcements soon  about the date of a special meeting, should the honour be accepted. This is something that is outside of party politics, and a way to recognise the contribution of Pep and his team after a fantastic season and recognise the impact on Manchester off the pitch.”

United fan and Lib Dem Chris Northwood – whose Ancoats and Beswick ward includes the Etihad Stadium said: “Our city’s football heritage has no parallel in the world. No matter your allegiance, the momentous success of Manchester City means that two of our city’s clubs have now won the Treble.

“I’m pleased to see, drawing a parallel with how football brings communities together, we’re able to work together with all parties to make this unified call from the whole council to award this honour to Pep Guardiola.”