Pep Guardiola stands as one of the preeminent managers of his era, having achieved remarkable success since embarking on his managerial career in 2008.
The Manchester City maestro commenced his managerial journey with Barcelona’s youth squad in 2007, eventually ascending to the senior team in 2008, succeeding Frank Rijkaard, according to France24.
Over the years, the 53-year-old Spaniard has etched his name in football history with triumphant spells at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and presently, Manchester City. Renowned for his innovative tactical approach, Pep has clinched multiple titles with each team, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s greatest managers.
As Pep Guardiola celebrates his 53rd birthday, let’s delve into six remarkable records that underscore his managerial prowess.
1. Only manager to win continental treble twice
Guardiola stands alone in the annals of football history as the sole manager to secure the continental treble on two separate occasions. This remarkable feat was accomplished in 2009 and 2011 with Barcelona, where he clinched the Champions League both times.
In 2009, Barca beat Chelsea in the UCL final before replicating the milestone in 2011 when they beat Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United.
2. Youngest manager to win the UCL
To date, Guardiola remains the youngest manager to ever lay his hands on the Champions League title.
He made history in 2009 when he lifted the trophy with Barcelona, aged just 38.
3. Record for most consecutive wins
The Spaniard holds the record for the most consecutive wins in three different top leagues.
He first achieved the feat with 21 La Liga wins in a row for Barcelona in (2010/11), 19 wins with Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga (2013/14), and 18 Premier League wins at Man City (2017/18).
4. First manager to reach 100 EPL points
OptaJoe reports Guardiola became the first manager to hit the 100-point mark in a 38-game Premier League season with Man City in 2017/18.
City lifted the domestic crown that season.
5. First manager to win domestic treble in England.
Pep has achieved so much at Man City since his arrival in 2017.
In his second season at the club, the Spaniard became the first manager to win the domestic treble in England after lifting the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the League Cup.
6. Joint-most Super Cups
This is not an individual record per se but more of an honourable mention.
Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti boast the joint-most wins in the UEFA Super Cup.
The two managers have won the trophy on four occasions, with Pep’s last coming in 2023, when Manchester City beat Sevilla.
Pep professes love for Barcelona
In a recent development, Sports Brief covered Guardiola’s emotional declaration of love for Barcelona during his acceptance speech after being honoured with the Best FIFA Men’s Coach Award for 2023.
The Manchester City manager openly expressed his deep affection for the La Liga club, attributing his success at Manchester City to the invaluable experience he garnered during his formative years at Barcelona.