Pep Guardiola has lifted the lid on what makes Manchester City such a special place, revealing that the club's "extraordinary" organization is the secret behind his remarkable decade-long tenure. As he approaches the end of his tenth campaign at the Etihad, the Catalan mastermind has opened up about the factors that have kept him thriving in Manchester—far beyond the trophy cabinet.
With 19 major honors already secured, Guardiola's longevity at City stands in stark contrast to his previous stints: four years at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich. But while success plays its part, he insists there's something deeper at work.
"I would not have been here 10 years if I didn't have the environment," Guardiola revealed in Friday's press conference, ahead of a crucial Premier League clash at Everton. He recalled comments from former City star Aymeric Laporte, who recently praised the club in a Spanish newspaper. "Aymeric said City is the best club in the world. You never realize how organized they are until you leave. That is the biggest compliment we can have."
Guardiola went on to highlight the "incredible environment" that fuels his energy, even on days off. "There are many details that explain how the club takes care of us and our families. We as a manager or players just think about what we have to do." He pointed to Ilkay Gundogan's return from Barcelona as further proof. "When Gundogan came back and said City is top, that says everything."
For Guardiola, this culture of care is what drives consistency. "That is why we are consistent in the Champions League for the last 15 years and always fighting for titles. There are systems around the players and bubbles that feel good." He singled out the player care department as a key pillar: "All the people there are incredible. You need something, and they're there."
As City gear up for another title push, Guardiola's words remind us that behind every great team is an even greater support system—one that keeps champions focused, happy, and ready to perform at their peak.