Guardiola Celebrates Milestone as Manchester City Prepares for Liverpool Clash

Pep Guardiola is poised to reach a significant milestone as he takes charge of his 1,000th game this Sunday when Manchester City hosts Liverpool in the Premier League. The Spanish manager expressed his amazement at the impressive statistics he has amassed throughout his career.

Since beginning his managerial journey with Barcelona B in 2007, Guardiola has secured 715 victories across all competitions. His tenure has been marked by exceptional success, boasting 12 top-flight titles with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City, alongside three Champions League trophies. With only 128 losses and an additional 14 cup victories to his name, Guardiola’s career reflects a remarkable level of achievement.

When asked by BBC Sport about his awareness of his win tally, Guardiola humorously remarked, “Of course I know, a lot. The numbers are insane, I’m sorry to tell you.”

He continued, “While I don’t dwell on the specifics, when I reflect on the milestones and the victories—both in the Premier League and the Champions League—it’s clear we have accomplished extraordinary feats with Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and here at City. Achieving this level of success again would be incredibly challenging, given the sheer number of games.”

Guardiola is widely recognized for transforming the landscape of English football with a distinctive style of play that has influenced many managers across the league. His achievements with Manchester City include leading the team to become the first to accumulate 100 points in a single league season, achieving a historic domestic treble, and winning four consecutive league titles.

He commented, “It might seem like I possess false humility, but achieving a victory percentage over 70%—winning seven out of every ten games—is a testament to the quality of players I’ve had at Barcelona, Munich, and City. However, it also requires immense dedication, passion, and hard work, and in that regard, no one can surpass me.”

When questioned about being labeled the greatest manager of all time by some, Guardiola responded with a smile, “They are completely right! Every manager leaves a mark in history, and I can proudly say that my numbers reflect my success. But I never started with the aim of being the best.”

Guardiola was recently inducted into the League Managers Association (LMA) Hall of Fame, a recognition noted by former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who emphasized the significance of longevity in reaching such a milestone.

As City prepares to face Liverpool, a team with which they have developed a fierce rivalry, Guardiola acknowledged the competitive nature of their encounters. “I believe we have pushed each other to improve; they have certainly made us better, and we have challenged them too,” he stated.

In terms of personal milestones, Guardiola noted, “If I had to choose a rival to share this moment with, it would undoubtedly be Liverpool. Having spent more time in this country than anywhere else, my experiences at Barcelona shaped my journey, but my time at Bayern was also significant.”

With 10 losses against Liverpool—tied with Tottenham as the teams that have defeated Guardiola the most—he praised the Reds for their role in his development as a manager and acknowledged the influence of Jurgen Klopp. The German manager is the one he has faced most frequently throughout his career, with Klopp overcoming Guardiola in 11 matches.

“Liverpool, especially under Jurgen, have been our greatest rivals in this country,” Guardiola remarked. “It’s been a remarkable experience, and I cherish the healthy rivalry we share. The respect between us has always been mutual. Jurgen has taught me a great deal, and I miss him; he has challenged me to improve.”

With anticipation building for this crucial clash against Liverpool, Guardiola is keen to continue his legacy as he approaches this remarkable milestone.