Pep Guardiola receives special gift from Egypt tourism board while on holiday with family after treble-winning season
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola received a special ‘Pharaoh’ trophy while on holiday in Egypt with his family.
Guardiola, his wife Cristina Serra, and their three children are visiting Egypt off a memorable season for the City manager. He guided his side to a continental treble, winning the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and FA Cup.
The trophies keep on coming for the legendary coach. So, the Spaniard has been handed a 'Pharaoh' trophy by Egypt's Ministry of Tourism, per The Sun.
The Guardiola family have travelled to Cairo and Luxor, visiting the Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Giza - historic landmarks. Meanwhile, the former Barcelona manager continues to make a history of his own at the Etihad.
The Spanish tactician became the first manager to win two European trebles. He first did so also while at the Camp Nou in the 2008-09 campaign.
Fast forward 14 years, his City side didn't just win the continental treble, they did so in style. They went unbeaten in their Champions League campaign and lost just five times in the Premier League, usurping Arsenal, who were atop the standings for 248 days.
City also got one over their cross-city rivals Manchester United. Pep Guardiola's men beat the Red Devils 2-1 in the FA Cup final. Hence, the Spaniard definitely deserves his downtime in Egypt after a gruelling season that ended up with a treble.
Pep Guardiola set to lose 'fantastic' Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona
Pep Guardiola will almost certainly head into next season with City without Ilkay Gundogan, who's joining the Spaniard's former employers, Barcelona, when his contract at the Etihad ends this month.
The Cityzens boss was keen to keep hold of Gundogan after a stellar season. The 32-year-old scored 11 goals and provided seven assists in 51 games across competitions.
Guardiola admitted that he was aware of Barca's interest before they struck an agreement with Gundogan. He lauded his outgoing captain:
“I’m aware of Barcelona interest in signing Gundo, but we’re also very interested in keeping him at the club! I hope he stays with us. If Barca succeed in signing him, they will get a great, fantastic player."
Sky Sports reports that Gundogan is joining the Blaugrana on a three-year deal. He leaves City having cemented his place as a club legend at the Etihad.
The German scored 60 goals - including both in the 2-1 FA Cup final win over United - and provided 40 assists in 304 games with Guardiola's side. He won five Premier League, one Champions League, two FA Cups and four League Cups.