Pep Guardiola’s most memorable Man City moments: Vincent Kompany’s thunderbolt and conquering Europe

Pep Guardiola is reportedly set to conclude his remarkable decade-long reign at Manchester City this summer, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy of 20 trophies. His potential departure would mark the end of an era defined by tactical innovation, relentless success, and a profound transformation of the club's identity, and here are his most memorable moments during his time in the City dugout. Selling Joe Hart (Summer 2016) From the outset, Guardiola demonstrated his uncompromising vision.

In the summer of 2016, he controversially sidelined England’s number one goalkeeper, Joe Hart, deeming him unsuitable for his possession-based style. This ruthless decision, initially questioned when replacement Claudio Bravo struggled, was ultimately vindicated by the arrival of Ederson, establishing a new cultural standard for the club. Pep Guardiola dropped Joe Hart shortly after joining Man City (Getty) Napoli statement (October-November 2017) After a transitional first season, City announced their European ambitions with dominant Champions League victories over Maurizio Sarri’s highly-rated Napoli in October and November 2017.

Guardiola himself described Napoli as one of the best teams he had faced, yet City secured a 2-1 home win and a 4-2 triumph in Italy, gaining wider European credibility. Decisive Derby (December 2017) Domestically, a decisive 2-1 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford that December effectively sealed the title race, silencing early sceptics and moving City 11 points clear, a lead they never looked like giving away. Centurions and record-breakers (April-May 2018) The 2017-18 season culminated in City becoming the Premier League’s first ‘Centurions’ in April and May 2018.

Their first title under Guardiola was confirmed when West Brom beat United, sparking impromptu celebrations. They quickly refocused, finishing with an astonishing 100 points, 32 wins, 106 goals, and a 19-point margin – all new records that underscored their unprecedented dominance. Magic from Stones and Kompany (2018-19) The following season, 2018-19, saw an enthralling title race against Liverpool, decided by the slimmest of margins.