Mueez Ajao
– Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said his side were “legends” after they secured their fourth Premier League title in five seasons.
– City won the league by a point over challengers Liverpool with a stunning 3-2 comeback win against Aston Villa on the final day at Etihad Stadium.
– It is Guardiola’s 11th trophy in six years since coming to England.
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– “We are legends. We will be remembered. This group of players are absolutely eternal in this club,” said Guardiola.
– “What we achieved, it is so difficult to do it. Sir Alex Ferguson with Manchester United has done it years ago – two or three times – now I realise again the magnitude of doing this. Now we are part of this.”
– City were 2-0 down to Villa with 15 minutes left before substitute Ilkay Gundogan scored twice, either side of midfielder Rodri’s goal, in a sensational five-minute comeback.
– Had they not won, Liverpool would have been champions.
– “The last game is always special – a lot of emotion,” Guardiola said. “Aston Villa gave everything but the first goal changed everything. We had to handle it.
– “When you win the Premier League in this country four times in five seasons, it is because these guys are so, so special.
– “Winning at home in front of our people is the best. The moment we equalised, we had the feeling we had the chance to score the third.
– “It was the best atmosphere I have ever lived since I am here. Hopefully tomorrow we can celebrate together in Manchester’s streets with our cigars and beers. I will bring my cigars, don’t worry.”
– Liverpool won 3-1 at home to Wolves but could do nothing to stop Manchester City defending their title.
– The top two sides lost just five games between them in the league all season.
– “The magnitude of the achievement is related to the magnitude of our rival and I have never seen a team like Liverpool in my life,” Guardiola added.
– “Congratulations to Liverpool – they have made us better and better each week.”
– Asked whether he planned to stay beyond his current contract, which expires at the end of next season, he added: “I don’t have the energy or desire to think about next season now.
– “Every season is more difficult. I would not betray the club – they give me probably the most incredible moments in my life but I have to feel it, the players have to feel it and the club has to feel it.
– “Now it is time to celebrate. We are champions again.”
