Pep Guardiola doesn’t seem too pleased with Manchester City’s recent form. After a frustrating draw against Liverpool, City had an unconvincing win against Leipzig. However, the Spaniard does seem to appreciate the things happening outside the pitch. Manchester City recently unveiled a statue for three of their club legends. Conspicuously, this move earned plaudits from the Spanish tactician.
Fans who attended the recent Champions League tie against RB Leipzig were the first to enjoy the ‘tribute’ in person. Considering Manchester City’s historic treble win, we can expect more honors in the future to celebrate the club’s achievements.
Manchester City’s gesture received the highest praise from Pep Guardiola
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In the press conference after the match against RB Leipzig, the 52-year-old tactician lavished praise on the club’s gesture of respect for the legends. He said, “They are in the perfect spot, right next to the [Etihad Stadium] main entrance. Unfortunately, Colin Bell and Francis Lee were not able to enjoy it, but Mike [Summerbee] was there. It is a marvelous gesture from the club.” He also jokingly added to altering the bus route so the players could enjoy the club’s touching act.
The incident touched Summerbee as he shared his thoughts on the warm gesture. He stated that this was a special moment for him and added that joining Manchester City was the best decision in his life. Colin Bell and Francis Lee’s families shared similar sentiments.
Moreover, Pep shares a similar feeling regarding his highly successful seven years at the side. Perhaps Guardiola could be the next in line to receive the recognition.
Pep Guardiola on #ManCity's new statue: “They are in the perfect spot, right next to the [Etihad Stadium] main entrance. Unfortunately Colin Bell and Francis Lee were not able to enjoy it, but Mike [Summerbee] was there. It is a marvellous gesture from the club…"
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) November 28, 2023
The Sky Blues pay the ultimate tribute to its legends
Manchester City recently unveiled a tribute to three of their greatest-ever players. The statue features Colin Bell, Francis Lee, and Mike Summerbee in motion while also having the names of their 29 teammates. As per the club chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, this artistry represents a trophy-winning era in the club’s history.
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#ManCity have unveiled a permanent tribute to Colin Bell, Francis Lee, and Mike Summerbee outside the Etihad Stadium, commemorating their combined 30 years of football service to the Club. 👑🩵 pic.twitter.com/V9qI8C1BtU
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) November 28, 2023
The trio played a combined 1280 games and scored 368 goals. Their contributions resulted in City winning the league in 1967/68 with other trophies. Furthermore, this is not the first time the Sky Blues have celebrated their players. In 2021, they unveiled the statues of David Silva and Vincent Kompany, two of the most influential players in the Pep Guardiola Era.
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How would you rate Manchester City’s tribute act? Let us know in the comments below.
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