Aston Villa spoil Guardiola farewell as Man City lose in emotional Etihad exit

By Tolulope Oke

Pep Guardiola’s remarkable decade-long reign at Manchester City ended on a disappointing note on Sunday, as the Premier League champions-elect suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium.

The emotional match marked the Catalan coach’s final game in charge after announcing his departure, closing a 10-year spell that delivered 20 trophies and transformed City into one of Europe’s most dominant clubs.

Guardiola was given a rousing send-off before kick-off, walking out to loud cheers, a giant banner bearing his image, and the message: “Game changer. History maker. City forever.” Fans also unveiled Catalan flags across the stadium, while a newly named Pep Guardiola Stand was inaugurated in his honour.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, City failed to deliver a winning farewell, falling to a second-half turnaround from Aston Villa.

City took the lead through Antoine Semenyo, who finished cleverly from a corner in a match that carried little competitive weight after Arsenal had already been confirmed champions following their draw at Bournemouth earlier in the week.

Villa, fresh from their Europa League triumph, responded strongly after the break. Ollie Watkins equalised after capitalising on a defensive error before adding a second goal to complete his brace and secure victory for Unai Emery’s side.

The visitors’ win also secured them a strong finish in the Premier League table ahead of Liverpool.

City thought they had salvaged a draw when Phil Foden fired in off the crossbar late on, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside in a tight and controversial decision.

Guardiola rotated heavily for the fixture, making nine changes and leaving out several key players, including Erling Haaland, who did not feature in the matchday squad.

The occasion also served as a farewell for long-serving stars Bernardo Silva and John Stones, who received emotional tributes from fans and teammates. Silva, who captained the side, was visibly moved before and during the match, while both players were given guard of honour moments during the game.

Silva and Stones have been part of all major successes under Guardiola, contributing to a trophy haul that includes six Premier League titles and a historic Champions League triumph.

Although the result ended City’s season on a sour note, the day was largely defined by tributes to Guardiola, whose tenure has left a lasting legacy in English football as he exits after a trophy-laden era at the Etihad.