Guardiola’s first win, despite multiple nominations, comes since the awards began in 2017. It followed his great treble-winning season with Manchester City in 2023 when they won the UEFA Champions League, the Premier League, and the FA Cup.

Manchester City were the most dominant club football team in 2023, and they demonstrated this at every level and event they competed in. From European competition to English football, Guardiola and his team were the most stunning all season. The Spaniard has brought in essential cornerstone players for the club while also integrating youthful talent into the squad, providing for adaptability across the board in terms of youth and experience.

Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi, Celtic and Tottenham’s Ange Postecoglou, Napoli’s Luciano Spalleti, and Barcelona’s Xavi were also finalists for the prize.

The Manchester City manager will try to replicate his treble-winning season as his team stands second in the Premier League, only two points behind Liverpool in first. However, the FA Cup and the UCL come first, with the former only a few days away.

City face Spurs on Friday, January 26 in an attempt to advance in the tournament, before returning to Europe on February 13 against FC Copenhagen.