Jurgen Klopp issues heartfelt video message to Pep Guardiola after latest managerial feat | OneFootball

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has received a warm message of congratulations from one of his most iconic rivals within the game this week.

There are few rivalries in modern football as rich and enduring as that between Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp – a competitive yet deeply respectful relationship that has defined English and European football over the past decade and a half.

From fierce battles in the Bundesliga between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund to epic Premier League title races between Manchester City and Liverpool, the two managers have consistently brought out the very best in each other.

Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp’s encounters have not only shaped the tactical evolution of the modern game, but also produced some of the sport’s most memorable contests, while their mutual respect has long been clear, even amid their most intense battles for silverware.

Guardiola has often described Klopp’s teams as his toughest opponents, while Klopp has praised the Manchester City boss as “the best manager in the world” – a dynamic that blends rivalry with admiration in equal measure.

Now, in a video message as part of a Sky Sports interview with Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp was keen to congratulate his managerial counterpart on reaching 1,000 matches in his coaching career this week.

“Pep, my friend! Welcome to the 1,000 Club! I can’t believe you look that young and you’ve already reached this absolutely incredible landmark. I probably don’t have to say I reached it 81 games ago, but… That’s probably the only time I arrived before you,” said Klopp.

The German coach continued, “It was a pleasure and honour to face you that often during our career. The most difficult games, but the games I enjoyed most because you were and are an inspiration to all of us.

“The way you understand football is pretty much second-to-none, the desire you show every day is absolutely outstanding. Another legendary club you’re a member of now, on to the next! All the best, speak soon, have a wonderful celebration – maybe with a glass of red wine!”

Jurgen Klopp’s message follows widespread tributes across the footballing world this week, as Guardiola prepares to be formally inducted into the League Managers’ Association’s exclusive 1000 Club, joining legendary figures such as Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsène Wenger, and Sir Matt Busby.

Pep Guardiola’s 1,000-game milestone, achieved after 18 years in coaching, spans four clubs during which he has claimed 37 major trophies. The City manager expressed his pride in the achievement, acknowledging the support he has received across his career and the joy he has found in shaping his teams’ identities.

Looking ahead, Pep Guardiola’s journey shows no signs of slowing down. With his contract at Manchester City running until the summer of 2027, the 54-year-old remains focused on extending his remarkable legacy in English football, while continuing to inspire a generation of coaches – from Vincent Kompany to Mikel Arteta – who have followed in his footsteps.