Pep Guardiola’s 593rd and final game in charge of Manchester City ended in an emotional Premier League defeat as Ollie Watkins scored a double for Aston Villa.
Recall that Guardiola, who will go down as one of the finest managers of his generation, confirmed on Friday that he will step down at City after collecting 20 trophies during a memorable decade in charge.
His last game started well as January signing Antoine Semenyo volleyed in the opener after a corner was flicked on at the near post, with the former Bournemouth man taking his tally to 17 league goals in a superb campaign.
But Europa League winners Villa and their in-form striker Watkins were party poopers as they responded brilliantly in the second half.
England defender John Stones, making his last City appearance, was punished for a poor-headed clearance as Watkins poked in the equaliser immediately after the break.
ALSO READ: EPL: Guardiola opens up on ‘one regret’ as City era ends
The magnitude of the occasion then hit home for City as departing captain Bernardo Silva was given a guard of honour when substituted by Guardiola, with both men in tears as they embraced on the touchline.
Watkins then turned the game around on the hour mark, running clear before coolly finishing past England team-mate James Trafford.
The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but was awarded by the video assistant referee as Ruben Dias was playing him on.
Phil Foden thought he had rescued a last-minute draw for City with a thumping finish via the crossbar, but the goal was ruled out for offside, with Guardiola slumping back in his seat in disappointment.
The result meant Villa confirmed their fourth-place finish and ruled out any hope Bournemouth had of qualifying for the Champions League.
(BBC)
