The FA

Pep's Wembley joy

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has no shortage of special Wembley memories

Saturday 22 Apr 2017

Pep Guardiola has already tasted two significant victories at Wembley in his career, as he prepares for Sunday's Emirates FA Cup semi-final.

The Manchester City boss takes his side into their tie with Arsenal, aiming to move one step closer to next month’s showpiece Final.

And as he contemplates his return to Wembley, it brought the good memories flooding back for the former Barcelona player and boss.

Arsenal v Manchester City
  • The Emirates FA Cup
  • Semi-Final
  • 3pm, Sunday 23 April 2017
  • Wembley Stadium connected by EE
  • Live on BT Sport

“I have very fond memories of the home of English football, both the old and the new,” said Guardiola.

“As a player, I was fortunate enough to be part of the side that won Barcelona’s first European Cup back in 1992 at the old stadium.

“The late, great Johan Cruyff was our manager and Ronald Koeman scored the winner against a talented Sampdoria side in extra-time.

“It was an emotional night, the sort of occasion where you create incredibly strong bonds with your team-mates.

“And in my time as Barca manager, we won the Champions League at the new Wembley against Manchester United in 2011.

“Our team reached a very high level in that game, so from a coaching perspective it was very satisfying and I remember it fondly.

“Those memories will live with me forever and you can safely say that Wembley Stadium holds a special place in my heart.”

A lot has happened since 2011 for both Guardiola and Manchester City, with the Sky Blues lifting The FA Cup themselves that year.

The FA ;

And Guardiola is now hoping to get his hands on more silverware this season, with The FA Cup representing their only chance of a trophy.

“I arrive here with Manchester City hoping to make new memories for our fans and players, but before we can dream of lifting the trophy, there is plenty of work to be done.

“Arsenal is a team full of talented players and I know how difficult it will be against them.

“Arsene Wenger was won The FA Cup six times, so he clearly knows what it takes to win this competition and he deserves great respect for that record.”

Guardiola was writing in the official Emirates FA Cup semi-final programme. Read his full column yourself and order a copy by clicking here.

By FA Staff