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      How ‘seductive’ Man City boss Pep Guardiola wooed wife Cristina away from her TV career – and took her advice on tactics

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      MANCHESTER City boss Pep Guardiola has been so stressed out in recent months he has sworn at autograph hunters and bled from scratching his head.He is suffering the worst run of results in an impeccable career.’Seductive’ Man City boss Pep Guardiola wooed wife Cristina away from her TV career – and took her advice on tacticsCredit: RexThe announcement of their break-up was preceded by his worst ever run as a managerCredit: GettyAfter winning six Premier League titles in seven years, his usually invincible team went seven games without a victory. And they’ve had just three victories in the last ten Prem matches.But now it seems his bizarre behaviour could also be a response to the end of his marriage to teenage sweetheart Cristina Serra.It was revealed this week that the 53-year-old football legend has split from the mother of his three children after 30 years.READ MORE ON Pep Guardiola The couple were said to have called it a day FIVE YEARS ago but kept the news under wraps until officially parting ways last month.A well-informed source in Pep’s homeland of Spain said: “I can assure you they’re living apart and only a handful of people knew about this.”The announcement of the break-up was preceded by his worst ever run as a manager, with his once invincible side losing five games in a row before Christmas.‘Already seductive’There had been rumours that all was not been well with the relationship for a while.Most read in FootballIn 2019, Cristina, 52, moved back to Barcelona with the couple’s youngest daughter, Valentina, 17, while Pep stayed in Manchester.But in public, Pep’s love for Cristina, who he married in 2014, seemed to be as strong as ever.Pep Guardiola ‘SPLITS from wife after 30 years and three children together’ according to reports in SpainThey spent this Christmas together and were in the Royal Box on Centre Court at Wimbledon last summer, after previously being spotted on idyllic holidays and sharing an emotional kiss after Man City won the Champions League for the first time in 2023.He has credited his wife with his great sense of fashion and for bringing up his children.Brazilian Cristina was so important to the Spaniard that he refused to join any team without her say-so.In a rare personal interview in 2018, he said: “Only at home I feel safe. I mean safe in terms of not being observed. I close the door and I feel safe.“My job is demanding a lot. Cristina is an incredible woman, not just an incredible mother.“If we were talking about moving to New York, Munich and here, if she decides not to come, I won’t come. I will not be here, I cannot be alone in this kind of job without my family.”The romance began when an 18-year-old Pep went to a fashion store in Barcelona owned by Cristina’s family to model some outfits by Spanish designer Antonio Miro. At the time, he was playing for Barcelona’s B team, while she was an actress who had appeared on Spanish TV.Pep’s sister Francesca once said: “He was very handsome, a good student, always getting good marks, the teachers drooled over him, he was already seductive when he was little.”I can assure you they’re living apart and only a handful of people knew about thisWell-informed source in Pep’s homeland of Spain Cristina gave up acting to concentrate on her successful clothing business and is now said to be worth over £30million.Meanwhile, Pep established himself as one of the best midfielders of his generation, winning multiple titles with Barcelona’s first team.But in 2001 he tested positive for the prohibited steroid nandrolone and was banned from playing for four months. Cristina is said to have been his rock during this time, and put out a statement defending her husband, who always denied doping. It took him another six years to clear his name on appeal.Pep was known as “Perfecto” due to his obsession with the game — and he did not approve of team-mates putting their social lives first.When he retired as a player in 2006 it did not lead to more time with Cristina as he jumped straight into management with Barcelona’s B team.As a result, Pep was even more consumed by tactics, to the point that he could not hold a conversation about other subjects for more than half an hour.His friend Manel Estiarte told The Times in 2016: “You invite him for a meal in a restaurant, but after 32 minutes you can see his mind is already wandering.There had been rumours that all was not been well with the couple’s relationship for a while (pictured after Pep’s Champions League victory in 2023)Credit: GettyFans were concerned when a cut appeared on his nose and there were scratch marks on his forehead“He starts staring at the ceiling and, although he’s nodding as if he’s listening to you, he’s not looking at you. In actual fact he’s probably thinking about the opposition left-back, the marking scheme for the midfielder, how much the wingers can support the inside forwards.”The manager has admitted that he can also drift off into a world of his own when he is at home with his wife and children.He said: “My family know that I am there but I am not there. Sometimes I’m at home but not at home.“They call ‘Pep, Pep’ but they know I am in my own world.”Pep’s dedication to his job has more than paid off. He became the youngest manager to win the Champions League in 2009, lifting the most sought-after trophy in his first season in charge of Barcelona’s first team.The demands of day-to-day management took their toll though, and in 2012 he quit as boss in order to take a year out. He admitted: “I’m drained and I need to fill up.”That gave the family a chance to enjoy a more relaxed life in New York, where they went around unrecognised as they visited art galleries and hung out in cafes.‘My wife is so elegant’But the Premier League’s top clubs, including Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea, were all chasing him. He turned them down in favour of German giants Bayern Munich in 2013, whose stars included Dutch winger Arjen Robben.While at the Bundesliga team he told the Press that Cristina gave her opinion about his starting line-up. Smiling, he said: “My wife is more complicated than Robben. Cristina sometimes complains about my tactical decisions.“She tells me to repeat the 11 with which I won the last match. To explain to her my system of rotation is more difficult than telling Robben, ‘Today you’re a substitute’.”Cristina also made her views known about the well-dressed Pep’s sartorial choices. He said: “My wife is so elegant, she helps me a lot. Before, I was a disaster. But now I am elegant thanks to her.”My wife is more complicated than Robben. Cristina sometimes complains about my tactical decisionsBut it took two decades before Pep made Cristina his wife, with the couple getting hitched at a civil ceremony in 2014 in Matadepera, Catalonia.That was followed by a move to Manchester two years later when he became City boss.The family lived a plush apartment in Salford, not far from the centre, with their children Maria, 24, Marius, 22, and Valentina.During the short breaks between the stressful football seasons they would take holidays in exclusive resorts in Mauritius and Barbados.But in 2019, Pep’s statement that he would only go where his wife did no longer appeared to stand.Cristina moved back to Barcelona to look after the fashion business while he remained in Manchester.The new living arrangements coincided with a string of defeats for City, and at the end of the 2019/20 season they lost the Premier League to Liverpool.The couple were said to have called it a day FIVE YEARS ago but kept the news under wraps until officially parting ways last monthCredit: RexMaria went to study in London and is now a social media influencer whose boyfriends have been rumoured to include former England player Dele Alli. Marius lives in Dubai, where he runs a marketing and publicity company.That appears to leave Pep alone in his £2.7million apartment in Deansgate CitySuites, central Manchester. Cristina remains the patron of their charitable foundation, Fundacion Guardiola Sala, and is expected to keep the £8million mansion they own in Barcelona.The break-up is said to be amicable and not due to any affairs.Tonight Pep was even seen still wearing his wedding ring at City’s match against Brentford.Spanish reporter Lorena Vazquez said: “It’s been a carefully considered decision the couple discussed over several months.“They continue to have a cordial and affectionate relationship. No one else is involved. There are no third parties.” Last summer he showed signs of irritation when he confronted young men asking for autographs near his flat. Pep told them: “Don’t come again, I won’t tell you again, I know your faces.”Fans were concerned when a cut appeared on his nose and there were scratch marks on his forehead.Following a draw in the Champions League in November, he addressed the marks by commenting: “I want to harm myself. It’s from my nail on my finger. I cut myself with my fingernail.”He later had to apologise following accusations that he was making light of self-harm.READ MORE SUN STORIESWith the revelation that his marriage is now over, these actions take on a new light.And what was proving to be his toughest season on the pitch may well also be his hardest year off the field as well.Pep Guardiola’s horror Man City runPEP GUARDIOLA admitted he is having sleepless nights as he endures his worst-ever spell as a manager.Here are the three-time defending Premier League champions’ nightmare last 10 games…Oct 30: Tottenham 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 2: Bournemouth 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 5: Sporting Lisbon 4 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 9: Brighton 2 Man City 1 – DEFEATNov 23 – Man City 0 Tottenham 4 – DEFEATNov 26: Man City 3 Feyenoord 3 – DRAWDec 1: Liverpool 2 Man City 0 – DEFEATDec 4: Man City 3 Nottingham Forest – WINDec 7: Crystal Palace 2 Man City 2 – DRAWDec 11: Juventus 2 Man City 0 – DEFEATTOTAL – WINS 1, DRAWS 2, DEFEATS 7 More

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      Pep Guardiola still wearing his wedding ring for Man City clash hours after news of shock split from wife Cristina Serra

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      PEP GUARDIOLA wore his wedding ring as he was seen for the first time since reports he has split with his wife Cristina Serra.Spanish newspaper Sport were the first to say the pair have ended their relationship after more than 30 years. Pep Guardiola seen in public for the first time since reports he has split with his wifeCredit: ReutersGuardiola was all smiles while arriving at BrentfordCredit: ReutersHe wore his wedding ring despite reports of a splitCredit: ReutersGuardiola put the personal news behind himCredit: RexBut Guardiola had to put it behind him as for Manchester City’s trip to Brentford. Guardiola was all smiles as he arrived at the Gtech Community Stadium – despite reports of his split. He even wore his wedding ring for the game in West London.However he wasn’t totally happy at full-time after seeing his side throw away a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Brentford.READ MORE IN football Sport reported that the couple decided to end their relationship in December while both in Spain over the Christmas period. The Barcelona-based paper wrote their relationship is still “cordial, stable and friendly” despite deciding to part ways.The report also claims they have been living apart for nearly five years after Cristina moved back to Barcelona to run her fashion company.But she has been moving from Spain to London – still spending time with City manager Guardiola.Most read in FootballCity declined to comment when approached over reports of the split.Guardiola is believed to have met Cristina in her family’s clothes store called Serra Claret when he was just 18.Man City boss Pep Guardiola’s recen struggles could be a response to the end of his marriage to teenage sweetheart  Cristina SerraHe was modelling for designer Antonio Miro in Serra’s shop when he first met Cristina.And even as recently as January 2024, the former midfielder revealed Cristina helps pick out his matchday outfits.Serra Claret stock many brands he has worn on the touchline, such as Dsquared2, CP Company and Armani.He told Men In Blazers: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion.”So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.”I am smart enough to know that when people are much much better than me, follow their advices, and hers is really good.”Despite meeting as teens, they waited a long time to get married.They tied the knot in 2014 in an intimate ceremony in Spain – a private service just for close family in Catalonia.And the two have three children, Maria, Marius and Valentina.Pep Guardiola and Cristina in July 2024Credit: RexThe couple met as teenagersCredit: GettyThe two pictured in 2013 in MunichCredit: Bongarts – GettyEldest daughter Maria, 24, is a model who has over 900,000 followers on Instagram.Son Marius, 22, currently resides in Dubai and runs three companies – one of them dedicated to advertising and marketing.And youngest Valentina, 17, is focused on studies.Cristina supported Guardiola as a player and then manager – his career as a boss starting with Barcelona in 2008.He won three LaLiga titles and two Champions League trophies with Barca before moving to Bayern Munich in 2013.He left Germany in 2016 after three seasons – in each of which he won the Bundesliga.Guardiola joined City in 2016 and has won SIX Premier League titles during his reign – and also a Champions League in 2023 to complete an historic Treble.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut this season has seen a dip in form, with with six losses leaving the club in sixth – 12 points adrift of leaders Liverpool.Guardiola with Cristina and their three kids in 2018Credit: PA:Press AssociationEldest Maria is a modelCredit: INSTAGRAM More

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      Enzo Fernandez’s ex-fiancee reveals ‘the love is still there’ as she opens up on being abruptly dumped by Chelsea star

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      ENZO FERNANDEZ’S ex-fiancee has said she still loves him despite being separated for three months.Chelsea star Fernandez split from Valentina Cervantes at the end of October following a six-year relationship in which they had two children together, Olivia and Benjamin.Enzo Fernandez’s ex-fiancee Valentina Cervantes revealed she still loves himCredit: Instagram / @valucervantesThe pair, who have two children together, split after six years at the end of OctoberFernandez said he wanted to ‘live alone’Credit: GettyThe Fernandez family reunited to celebrate the New YearBut Valentina has admitted they are now on ‘different paths’Fernandez had told her he wanted to “live alone”, with a statement on Valentina’s social media page at the time confirming the split.He has continued to see his children despite the split and reunited with them and childhood sweetheart Valentina in London over the New Year.The midfielder, who turns 24 on Friday, entered a rich vein of form following the split and was linked romantically with Argentinian rapper Nicki Nicole.However, Valentina revealed she had been assured those rumours were false, and in a new interview with La Nacion she insisted she still loves Fernandez.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShe said: “I think the love is still there because it is difficult for it to go away so quickly.”The model and influencer, who met Fernandez as a 17-year-old when he was 16 at River Plate, also opened up on how she has coped with their breakup but admitted they were now on “different paths”.Valentina added: “I took five minutes, literally. Today I don’t cry anymore…”I bet on falling in love again and forming another family. I am young and I would have a million children.”Most read in FootballOn the New Year family reunion, Valentina said in December: “Enzo asked me to go to London for Christmas,”But I told him I preferred to spend it here in Argentina because the kids have more cousins and it makes the moment of opening gifts and everything else more special.Fans convinced romantic Enzo Fernandez dedicated Chelsea goal to ‘new rapper girlfriend’ by referencing her song”But for the 31st, we’ll travel there and spend it together.”I’m not going to go to Big Ben with a cider alone. We talked about it, and he has no problem with it, and neither do I, in that I know how to separate things.”We are going to do everything possible to make the children happy. “I’m going to stay a few days because I have to finish some things there that I left behind, then I’ll come back here and they’ll stay with him a bit longer.”Speaking about the rumours regarding his dating life, she continued: “I asked him. Obviously, I don’t get involved in those things and I would respect the woman he has from now on because it’s his life.”But I wanted to know because I think as the mother of the children I have to know and he told me they weren’t together.”Olivia listens to Nicki Nicole’s songs, I was thrilled…. I think they met once. Not alone, in a group.”We’ve talked about the fact that if either of us starts a new relationship in the future, we will inform each other out of respect and because we share two children together.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFernandez has scored three goals and added four assists in all competitions this season.He has started every Premier League game for Enzo Maresca’s side since a 1-1 draw against Arsenal in November and is expected to play a part again as the Blues take on Bournemouth this evening.Fernandez had been rumoured to be dating rapper Nicki NicoleCredit: Getty More

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      Inside Pep Guardiola’s £100m empire as Man City boss splits from wife – from £2.7m pad to ‘wrecked’ £460k car collection

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      FOOTBALL boss Pep Guardiola is used to dominating the football world, guiding Manchester City to trophy after trophy.But sadly, things off the pitch are not going so smoothly, following his reported split from wife Cristina Serra, who he has been with for more than 30 years.Pep’s wife Cristina has been at his side throughout his football careerCredit: GettyThe couple and their children have enjoyed lavish holidays over the yearsPep announced a sponsorship deal with Puma which is likely to have landed him a seven-figure pay dayCredit: PA:Press AssociationPep owns multiple luxury properties, has had numerous brand sponsorship deals and earns an eye-watering £19.7million a year from the Blues.But it remains to be seen how the couple, who wed in 2014, might split his fortune if they divorce, amid reports from Spain that they are still “cordial, stable and friendly”.It has been reported by Barcelona-based newspaper Sport that the pair came to a decision to separate in December while they were together in Pep’s homeland.Manchester City declined to comment about the split rumours.READ MORE CELEB FEATURESPep is said to have met his wife when he was just 18 years old, while Cristina was 16 and working in her family’s clothes store called Serra Claret.Both certainly have a good eye for the finer things in life, with Pep admitting it is his wife who often picks his pricey match-day outfits.Here we look at Guardiola’s gigantic £100million fortune, which includes a restaurant, luxury cars and a designer wardrobe that rivals most models.Stylish footballPep started off his career playing for Barcelona from the age of just 17, eventually debuting for their first team in 1990.Most read in FootballIt didn’t take long for him to be snapped up by fashion designers and by 18 he was modelling for designer Antonio Miro – which led to him meeting his wife.It was reported that every item from the Catalonian designer sold out just a few days after the event. Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transferPep has guided Manchester City to huge successCredit: PAHe’s credited his wife with his style choices, which have always drawn attentionCredit: GettyIt is, perhaps, unsurprising that Pep has become known for his style at the Etihad Stadium, often sporting turtle-necks and branded jumpers instead of always going for stuffy suits. Among his outfits is his signature grey ‘hoodigan’, which was made by Theresa May’s favourite Italian designer Herno and reportedly costs £1,200.But’s he not always the one behind these iconic outfits.He said: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion. So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.“I am smart enough to know that when people are much, much better than me, follow their advice, and hers is really good.”After retiring from his playing career, Pep made his name as a superstar manager at Barcelona and Bayern Munich before signing in 2016 for Manchester City, netting himself a mega pay-day.While at Bayern Munich, he was reported to be bringing in £15million per year, netting him a cool £45million for the three years at the Bundesliga club.Pep is currently paid £19.7million a year, in a newly-extended deal that expires in 2026.Pulling powerHe collaborated with Nissan… despite having dented many of his own carsCredit: NissanPep was an ambassador for the Qatar World CupCredit: AFPPep reportedly started on £12million back in 2016, and has topped his income up on the side with some smart sponsorship deals.His most eye-popping brand partnership is with Puma, who are also the kit sponsor for Manchester City, in a deal worth £650million.Guardiola is thought to have netted seven figures for the personal collaboration.Previous brand deals have included Nissan, clothing brand Gore-Tex and – more controversially – being an ambassador for the Qatar World Cup in 2022.Home gameHe lives in a £2.7million pad in Manchester, which is also part of a hotelCredit: MENThrough the flat he has access to an 18m poolCredit: instagramSince moving to Manchester back in 2016, Pep has made the city a home and splashed out on a truly lavish flat.He spent £2.7million on the luxury home in City Suites, which is said to be in the “most desirable address” in Salford.It isn’t hard for him to embrace his passion for fashion as it’s next to designer shops as well as high-end restaurants and wine bars. The unusual residence – considering most footballers in the area opt for a sprawling mansion in leafy Cheshire – is in a private section of a 16-floor hotel.The property gives Pep access to an 18-metre indoor pool, an exquisite spa and sauna facilities as well as a 24-hour gym. Other benefits included two private parking spots, a 24-hour concierge team, dry-cleaning services and access to a private executive lounge.  It’s not his only home. Pep also snapped up an 8,000-square-foot mansion in Pedarlbes, the most expensive area in Barcelona, for a mere £8.55million back in 2021.The gorgeous white house has breathtaking views of the city thanks to its position in the foothills of Sant Pere Màrtir mountain.It features a spacious living area, a high-end kitchen, a large private swimming pool and balconies across two storeys to take advantage of the picturesque landscape.While he has two luxurious homes, he hasn’t shied away from renting pricy places too. During a one-year sabbatical in 2012, he splashed out on a fancy New York flat that set him back £19,500-per-month and overlooked Central Park.The Upper West Side abode used to be the home of other celebs including X-Files actor David Duchovny and Barbra Streisand.It boasted four bedrooms, bathrooms, and a study where Pep was said to have learned and practised German before taking over at Bayern Munich.Food for thoughtHe is one of three investors in Tast Catala in ManchesterCredit: Instagram/@tastcatalaIt is currently helmed by a chef whose restaurants have won four Michelin starsCredit: Instagram/@tastcatalaAnd it’s not just homes that Pep’s acquired over the years.He is a co-owner of Tast Catala in Manchester. The eatery opened its doors in 2018 and now has chef Paco Perez – whose restaurants have four Michelin stars between them – at the helm creating the menus. The acclaimed establishment focuses on bringing a taste of the Costa Brava to Manchester and can host up to 120 diners.While it won’t break the bank to dine there, it’s certainly not cheap, with mains costing more than £20. Pep’s also invested in another passion of his: wine.It was reported in 2021 that he had forked out £200,000 on a Spanish vineyard’s finest vintage bottles and reportedly drinks a glass or two after football matches.Friends told The Daily Star that he spent as much as £500,000 on fancy reds including the very best Riojas, prized Priorat and Ribera del Duero labels.A source said: “His main interest is that of a collector of fine vintages, and he sees the value of them as investments… Not only does he enjoy a glass of wine, he really knows his stuff too.”Drive for successThe footie boss reportedly dented his pricey BentleyCredit: BentleyOutside of his property portfolio, Pep has invested in some rather expensive motors over the years. And while they’re said to lose money the second you drive them off, the football boss has certainly managed to lower the value even further with a series of bumps and scrapes.Since moving to Manchester in February 2016, Pep has damaged a series of cars collectively worth £460,000. They included a £200,000 silver Bentley, GTX700, a £150,000 Range Rover, an £80,000 black Mercedes GLE and a £30,000 Mini Cooper.A source said: “Pep is brilliant at many things, but driving doesn’t appear to be one of them, he has struggled with the roads in Manchester and had a couple of bumps.”Pep’s Manchester City recordAfter joining Manchester City in February 2016, Pep had his first season without winning a trophy since he went into club management.The team’s form declined in the second half of the season despite a promising start.Things started to look up in the 2017-18 season after Pep identified the issues in defence the team had. Pep guided City to a record-breaking 100 points and the title, earning him a contract keeping him at the club until 2021.Under his guidance, Manchester City have won the Premier League five times and the Champions League once.They’ve also taken home a FIFA Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup, two FA Cup wins, four Carabao Cups and two FA Community Shields.He has also been voted Premier League Manager of the Season four times.This season they are currently sixth in the Premier League, so it doesn’t look like Pep will be adding another title to the cabinet.Authors Lu Martin and Pol Ballus wrote in the 2019 book Pep’s City: The Making Of A Superteam: “Today he’s behind the wheel of his black Mercedes.”He has a reputation from his Barcelona days of being a hapless driver and this is his fourth car he has owned since coming to Manchester.“His wing mirrors don’t survive for long and he’s also managed to fill a diesel Range Rover with petrol and mangle a silver Bentley.”Time is moneyHe owns a series of expensive watches, which double as an investmentCredit: SuppliedHis expensive tastes don’t end with cars and clothes – he also owns an array of pricey watches.Among them was a Richard Mille (RM) RM 27-01 Tourbillon Rafael Nadal, which he was pictured with on a golf course, that costs around £590,000 due to there only being ten in the world.Other ultra-expensive timepieces seen on his wrist include a £455,000 RM 022 Tourbillon Aerodyne, a £75,000 RM 010 ‘Manchester City’ and the RM 004 All Gray, which costs more than £150,000.READ MORE SUN STORIESLast year Pep was seen wearing a RM 67-02 watch – they typically cost £228,000 but his timepiece was a United Arab Emirates edition, which is not for sale.He has also been seen sporting a £55,000 Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph 5905P and a £12,500 Rolex Cellini. 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      From scratching head in anguish to snapping at fans, the signs of Pep Guardiola’s secret ‘marriage breakdown’

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      THE worst spell of Pep Guardiola’s managerial career has played out in front of the world.But in private, the Manchester City manager has also been suffering the heartbreak of the breakdown of his 30-year relationship with wife Cristina Serra.Pep Guardiola is experiencing his worst-ever season as a managerCredit: GETTYThe Spaniard worryingly revealed he wanted to harm himself and had self-induced scratches all over his head after City’s Champions League collapse to FeyenoordGuardiola had to be held back after confronting a fanChampions Manchester City are a whopping 12 points behind league leaders LiverpoolCredit: GETTYGuardiola has also been dealing with the breakdown of his marriage to Cristina SerraCredit: REXGuardiola was filmed snapping at autograph huntersPep and his wife are said to have gone their separate ways after nearly 30 years togetherCredit: PAGuardiola’s behaviour during City’s wretched run has been put down to him struggling to cope with the unfamiliar feeling of losing.He has snapped at autograph hunters and fans. He has bared his soul in interviews, branding himself “not good enough”.And while watching his team let a 3-0 lead slip against Feyenoord, the City boss became so agitated that he left scratch marks on his face.Now it appears there was a lot more going on beneath the surface – and the signs were there all along.READ MORE ON PEP GUARDIOLAReports from Spain that Guardiola and Cristina finally split last month are a reminder that one of the most relentlessly successful coaches of all time is also a human being with the same problems as anyone else.Guardiola’s on-field issues have arrived in the ninth season of his reign at City, the longest he has spent in charge of one club.But he and Cristina have been an item for more than three decades, after meeting as teenagers in 1994 and marrying in 2014.And the sacrifices as Guardiola tried to find that work/life balance will have been difficult, even at the best of times.Most read in FootballGuardiola and Cristina have been living apart since 2019 when she returned to Barcelona with daughter Valentina, the youngest of the couple’s three children.The explanation given at the time was that Cristina was taking a leading role in her family’s fashion business, Serra Claret, which is based in the Catalan city.Pep Guardiola says ‘I’m the manager and I’m not good enough’ as Man City lose again Although Guardiola made trips back to Barcelona, when the hectic fixture schedule allowed, the pair inevitably ended up leading separate lives.Rumours of a split emerged in the spring. Yet soon afterwards Cristina was in Manchester to celebrate City’s unprecedented fourth title in a row and there were other public displays of togetherness, too, such as a day out at Wimbledon last July.Photos also emerged of the whole family – including eldest child Maria and son Marius – enjoying a summer holiday in Egypt.But it seems as though Guardiola went into the new season with doubts not only about his football future.His City contract was due to expire in June and speculation grew when the club confirmed in October that director of football Txiki Begiristain, Guardiola’s old Barcelona pal and close ally, would be leaving at the end of the campaign.The City boss signed a two-year extension in November as results started to slide.The following month he and Cristina are said to have agreed to end their marriage.And it seems significant that the biggest crisis of Guardiola’s reign at City has coincided with personal difficulties.His recent confrontation with autograph hunters outside his home in Manchester is just the latest example of him losing his cool.After City lost the FA Cup final to rivals United in May, Guardiola reacted angrily to goading from a supporter.Reports in Spain say Pep Guardiola and Cristina Serra went their separate ways last monthCredit: GETTYPep Guardiola has kept a lid on his separation from the mother of his three childrenCredit: GETTYBut the Spaniard has had several out-of-character outbursts this seasonCredit: GETTYAnd as the club slumped from the top of the Premier League to miles off leaders Liverpool, he showed signs of stress and vulnerability that no-one had seen before.After Guardiola scratched himself during the collapse against Feyenoord in late November, he said: “I cut myself with my fingernail.“I want to harm myself.”It was an off-hand comment, a half-joke to explain why what was unfolding on the pitch was reflected in his appearance.But in these sensitive times, Guardiola had to issue a statement soon afterwards, saying: “My answer was in no way intended to make light of the very serious issue of self harm.”Of course it wasn’t. Yet this was just another example of the intense scrutiny and pressure that Guardiola has to live with constantly.And he freely admits he has been feeling it.When asked if he was in any way enjoying the biggest challenge of his managerial career at all, Guardiola said: “I don’t enjoy it all. I don’t like it.“I don’t sleep as good as when I won every game. But that doesn’t mean I don’t have to do it.“This shall pass, I don’t know when, but nothing is eternal, not even our lives. “Maybe it’s more unusual to win four Premier League in a row, right?“So in that moment I was stable enough, I was happy because I eat better and sleep better.”But I was not thinking differently to who I am.”I’m the same person as four Premier Leagues in a row and in that situation, I have the same doubts.”Pep Guardiola and Cristina Serra became an item back in 1994Credit: GETTYGuardiola was adamant that his passion to make City succeed was undimmed and that was why he had signed the new deal.Yet he also left open the possibility that he would not be able to turn things around.Guardiola said: “If I extend, it is because I feel it. I’m not sitting here just for what I’ve done, or because still I’m happy.“Still I want to try. But I don’t want to stay in the place like I feel I’m a problem.“I don’t want to [just] because the contract is there. My chairman knows it.READ MORE SUN STORIES“And I said to him, give me the chance to try to come back. And after if we are not able to do it, we have to change.”But it seems Guardiola and his childhood sweetheart have decided they were unable to carry on and had to make a change. More

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      Inside Pep Guardiola’s £2.7million luxury bachelor pad in Manchester as Man City boss ‘splits from wife after 30 years’

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      MANCHESTER CITY boss Pep Guardiola resides in a £2.7million luxury Salford apartment.Reports emerged in Spain yesterday that Guardiola, 53, split with wife of 30 years Cristina last month.Pep Guardiola lives in a Salford apartmentCredit: MENThe Man City boss spent £2.7m on the property in 2017Credit: MENPep, 53, has split from wife CristinaCredit: GettyThe couple had been living apart for nearly five years, after Cristina moved back to Barcelona to run her fashion company.In 2021, Guardiola bought an 8,000-square-foot mansion in Pedarlbes, the most expensive area in Barcelona, for £8.55million.When in Manchester, however, the experienced boss preferred to live in an apartment closer to the city centre.Upon moving to the Etihad in 2017, Guardiola forked out £2.7m on a luxury apartment in City Suites.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRather than heading to a sprawling mansion in the leafy Cheshire suburbs, Guardiola instead opted for the “most desirable address” in Salford.His apartment is situated in a private section of a 16-floor hotel, and is located near several designer shops and high-end restaurants and wine bars.Guardiola also has access to an 18-metre indoor spa pool, exquisite spa and sauna facilities as well as a 24-hour gym.In addition to these amenities, the City boss also has two private parking spots, a 24-hour concierge team, dry-cleaning services and access to a private executive lounge.Most read in FootballGuardiola has three kids with wife CristinaCredit: GettyOperations director Gavin Bailey told the Manchester Evening News in 2017: “It’s not like a hotel.”We’re trying to make it more special, this is effectively your home during your stay, and we run it that way.Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transfer”We have people here for four nights but then we also have people here who are staying for 12 months.“It might be someone on a work assignment here, or a theatre production company here who were here for three months, we have TV people, sports people, you might recognise people walking around the building but we try to run it as though this is your space.”According to Spanish outlet Sport, Guardiola’s relationship with Cristina remains “cordial, stable and friendly” despite their split.The pair met at Cristina’s family clothes store when he was just 18, as he modelled for designer Antonio Miro.Guardiola’s apartment is located in Manchester’s ‘most desirable area’Credit: MENThe City boss has access to a private pool and jacuzziCredit: MENSerra Claret stock many brands he has worn on the touchline, such as Dsquared2, CP Company and Armani.And in January 2024, Guardiola revealed Cristina helps pick out his matchday outfits.He told Men In Blazers: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion.”So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.”I am smart enough to know that when people are much much better than me, follow their advice, and hers is really good.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe pair wed in an intimate ceremony in 2014.They have three children together; Maria, 24, Marius, 22, and Valentina, 17.Guardiola attended the Wimbledon Championships with wife Cristina and daughter Maria last summerCredit: APPep and Cristina had been together for 30 yearsCredit: Rex More

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      Pep Guardiola ‘SPLITS from wife after 30 years and three children together’ according to reports in Spain

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      PEP GUARDIOLA has SPLIT from his wife of 30 years, according to reports in Spain.Barcelona-based newspaper Sport report that Guardiola and wife Cristina decided to end their relationship in December while both in Spain.Pep Guardiola and Cristina in July 2024Credit: RexThe couple met as teenagersCredit: GettyThe two pictured in 2013 in MunichCredit: Bongarts – GettySport say their relationship is still “cordial, stable and friendly” despite deciding to part ways. The report claims they have been living apart for nearly five years after Cristina moved back to Barcelona to run her fashion company. But she has been moving from Spain to London – still spending time with Manchester City manager Guardiola. City declined to comment when approached over reports of the split. READ MORE IN football Guardiola is believed to have met Cristina in her family’s clothes store called Serra Claret when he was just 18. He was modelling for designer Antonio Miro in Serra’s shop when he first met Cristina. And even as recently as January 2024, the former midfielder revealed Cristina helps pick out his matchday outfits. Serra Claret stock many brands he has worn on the touchline, such as Dsquared2, CP Company and Armani.Most read in FootballHe told Men In Blazers: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion.”So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transfer”I am smart enough to know that when people are much much better than me, follow their advices, and hers is really good.”Despite meeting as teens, they waited a long time to get married.They tied the knot in 2014 in an intimate ceremony in Spain – a private service just for close family in Catalonia.And the two have three children, Maria, Marius and Valentina.Eldest daughter Maria, 24, is a model who has over 900,000 followers on Instagram.Son Marius, 22, currently resides in Dubai and runs three companies – one of them dedicated to advertising and marketing. And youngest Valentina, 17, is focused on studies.Cristina supported Guardiola as a player and then manager – his career as a boss starting with Barcelona in 2008.He won three LaLiga titles and two Champions League trophies with Barca before moving to Bayern Munich in 2013. He left Germany in 2016 after three seasons – in each of which he won the Bundesliga.READ MORE SUN STORIESGuardiola joined City in 2016 and has won SIX Premier League titles during his reign – and also a Champions League in 2023 to complete an historic Treble.But this season has seen a dip in form, with with six losses leaving the club in sixth – 12 points adrift of leaders Liverpool. Guardiola with Cristina and their three kids in 2018Credit: PA:Press AssociationEldest Maria is a modelCredit: INSTAGRAMGuardiola has won six Premier League titles with CityCredit: Getty More

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      Kyle Walker’s wife believes she’s being harassed by Lauryn Goodman, claims pal as Man City star’s ex ‘plots Dubai move’

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      KYLE Walker’s wife believes she is being harassed by Lauryn Goodman, a pal has claimed.Long-suffering Annie Kilner and her love cheat hubby are plotting a move to Italy in a bid to save their marriage.Kyle Walker poses with Annie and kids for Christmas InstagramCredit: InstagramLauryn Goodman seen attending Releaf launch party in 2023Credit: GettyBut the Man City ace, 34, was previously linked with a move to Saudi Arabia on a £400,000-a-week deal.And now it has emerged Lauryn, 33, is also planning to quit the UK and move to Dubai.Her revelation came just hours before it was announced the Walker expressed a desire for a new start abroad.A friend of Kyle and Annie told MailOnline: “You have to wonder whether Lauryn was planning a move to Dubai because she thought that Kyle and Annie were off to the Middle East too.Read more Sports News”She has form for winding them up, particularly Annie, but it hasn’t worked as they have no intention of going there.”She thinks Lauryn is a total wind-up merchant and believes it is harassment.”The Sun revealed yesterday that Walker is ready to finalise a shock loan deal with Inter Milan this month.The couple hope to leave behind the captain’s tangled love life and focus on the future.Most read in FootballKyle has been linked to two top clubs in the trendy Italian city.A source said a loan agreement with Inter Milan had been reached in principle, despite huge rivals AC Milan also expressing an interest.Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transferInsiders said he shocked City bosses last week by saying he wanted a move, and 31-year-old Annie is likely to move with him, despite filing for divorce in August.One said: “Neither of them know what the future holds. But they’re hopeful a switch to Italy will give them the breathing space they desperately need to see if things can be worked out.”It’s been impossible to do that in England due to the pressure they’ve been under for the last 12 months.”They’re hoping time alone will help them decide if there’s anything left they can salvage.”Annie is keen to press ahead with the divorce in order to sort the finances out and Kyle won’t oppose that. But they haven’t yet fully given up on one another.”Their four kids — Roman, 12, Riaan, eight, six-year-old Reign and baby Rezon — will also make the move from their home in Prestbury, Cheshire.The news comes after The Sun revealed last year that Walker had fathered a second child with ex-mistress Lauryn Goodman.Annie, pregnant with Rezon at the time, vowed it was the last straw and kicked him out.Then, in an exclusive interview with The Sun, the football ace ­publicly apologised and begged for forgiveness.In the summer, Walker returned from England’s Euros defeat to face 33-year-old Lauryn in court over financial arrangements for year-old daughter Kinara.Papers revealed he had in­c­reased Lauryn’s housing budget from £1.85million to £2.4million after she threatened to move within ten minutes of his family home.READ MORE SUN STORIESWalker’s bombshell request to quit City was revealed after he was left out of the squad ahead of ­Saturday’s 8-0 FA Cup demolition of Salford City.Stunning Annie is said to have had second thoughts about divorcing WalkerCredit: InstagramThe Walkers live in a plush £3.5m property in CheshireCredit: Instagram / @kylewalker2Annie and Walker have suffered marriage woes in the pastCredit: instagram/annievkilnerWalker had an affair with Lauryn and fathered her children More