Aston Villa defeated Manchester City 2-1 to ruin Pep Guardiola’s final game in charge at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola confirmed on Friday he will step down at City after an astonishing legacy with City.
His last game began on a positive note, after Ghanaian star Antoine Semenyo volleyed in the opener from a corner kick. But Villa striker Ollie Watkins responded brilliantly with an equaliser in the second half. The Europa League winner took advantage of Curtis Jones’ poor header.
Shortly after Bernardo Silva, who is also leaving Etihad, was given a guard of honour when substituted by an emotional Guardiola, Watkins went to work again, coolly finishing past James Trafford.
The goal was initially ruled out for offside but was awarded by the video assistant referee for Ruben Dias was playing him on. Phil Foden thought he had rescued a last-minute draw for City with a thumping finish, but the goal was ruled out for offside, making Guardiola to slump back on his seat with disappointment.
The result meant Villa, who already qualified for the Champions League with Europa win, confirmed their fourth-place finish. Bournemouth will play the Europa League after Liverpool took the final spot in the Champions League after a 1-1 draw against Brentford.
Despite the defeat, Guardiola walks away from Etihad as one of the most decorated managers of all time, with 20 trophies during a memorable decade in charge.
