Man City’s Pep Guardiola Named LMA’s Manager of the Year
Manchester City’s head coach has received the 2021 Sir Alex Ferguson Trophy, an award given to the best manager of the year by England’s League Managers Association. This is Guardiola’s second award given by fellow managers, having been honored previously for leading City to a fantastic 2017-18 season.
Under Pep’s guidance, Manchester City have won their third title in the previous four seasons, while also reaching the Champions League final with English rivals Chelsea and winning this season’s Carabao Cup. This won him the prestigious award ahead of fellow coaches Marcelo Bielsa from Leeds, Leicester’s Brendan Rodgers, David Moyes of West Ham, Norwich City’s Daniel Farke, and Chelsea Women’s Emma Hayes.
“I am delighted to win the LMA Manager of the Year award for the second time,” said Guardiola. “It is, for me, such a special trophy to win because it is voted for by my fellow managers. An award like this is only possible, though, if a manager is surrounded by top professionals.”
Pep went on to praise his entire team, including support staff and the players: “My players have been fantastic – their dedication and professionalism never wavered, 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.”
Alex Ferguson, Manchester United’s celebrated coach and the man after whom the trophy was named, also paid tribute to former rival Guardiola. Ferguson, who is himself part of the LMA committee, said: “As well as being a truly gifted manager and leader, you always display admirable humility and composure, and I am sure your family must be very proud of you.”
City’s fantastic start of the season made Guardiola an early favorite to win, with football betting sites worldwide giving him the best odds several months ago. While City fans are thrilled, many bitter fans of other clubs in England will undoubtedly echo the common complaint against Guardiola – anyone could be a good manager if enough money is thrown at the squad.