Guardiola thanks City staff

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has paid tribute to the club's behind-the-scenes staff in a speech to mark their Premier League triumph.

Defeat for Manchester United at home to West Brom on Sunday gifted City the title with five matches to spare, after the Citizens failed to clinch the trophy against the Red Devils at the Etihad Stadium a week earlier.

As his players returned to training ahead of Sunday's home clash with Swansea City, Guardiola was keen for the club's staff to celebrate with the first team.

"We could not celebrate together when we were champions because we were at home," he explained. "So maybe the easiest thing I can do is a speech, but it's also the most difficult one.

"Big congratulations because we are the champions, we are the best in England.

April 18, 2018

"For all my staff, the people here, the laundry, everybody, I would like to feel part of that.

"Always we speak about the manager, the players. It's impossible to achieve what we have achieved without your unbelievable effort.

"Of course, we have absolutely everything here to help the guys, and the guys know how outstanding they work.

"You create something unique in the locker room and the spirit and your friendship.

"It's impossible to achieve what we have achieved if you are not good human beings, if you are not good people.

"What I felt this season, it's something amazing."