Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, and his wife, Cristina Serra, have ended their 30-year-long relationship. The couple, married in 2014, share three children and are reportedly on amicable terms, according to Spanish outlet Sport.
Serra, now 52, moved to Barcelona in 2019 with their daughter, Valentina, to take on a role in the family-owned fashion company, Serra Claret, while Guardiola stayed in Manchester.
Although separated by distance, the couple managed to maintain their marriage until December when they decided to part ways.
Despite the changes in his personal life, Guardiola has remained committed to his professional role. After nine successful years at Manchester City, many speculated that Guardiola might leave, but in November, he signed a two-year contract extension, quelling any doubts about his future with the club.
However, Guardiola has faced immense challenges in recent months. Manchester City’s form faltered, making it unlikely they would secure a fifth consecutive Premier League title. As of gameweek 20, the team is 12 points behind Liverpool, despite recent victories.
Guardiola’s emotional toll has been evident. His mental health came into focus in November after a frustrating 3-3 draw with Feyenoord in the Champions League, in which City squandered a three-goal lead.
The following press conference saw Guardiola sporting visible injuries to his face, which he explained were caused by an accidental scratch.
His comment about self-harm, made in jest, caused a stir and led him to apologize for trivializing a serious issue.
Over the weekend, Guardiola was involved in an awkward confrontation with autograph hunters, where he scolded them for wasting time and encouraged them to focus on their future.
His outburst reflected the mounting pressures he’s facing, both personally and professionally, as he continues to navigate these difficult circumstances.