Exclusive: Pep Guardiola's secret life as a Manchester local revealed by the man who photographed him over 11,000 times. As the legendary manager announces his departure from Manchester City after a decade, the 55-year-old Spaniard has become a beloved figure in the city, known for his regular habits and interactions with locals.
Pep's Manchester Routine
Guardiola's daily life included a morning espresso at Vero Moderno in Salford and frequent visits to The White Company on King Street. He often rode his £5,000 Pinarello racing bike through the city, sometimes cycling the wrong way down Deansgate. He also enjoyed walking and was known to ride along the Manchester Ship Canal at night for peace.
Photographer's Perspective
Eamonn Clarke, 61, and his brother James have documented Guardiola for a decade. Eamonn captured him over 11,000 times, noting his routines and the secret door at his Catalan restaurant Tast, where Guardiola held meetings. The restaurant closed in December 2025, which Eamonn saw as a sign of his impending departure.
Interactions with Locals
Guardiola mingled with everyone from coffee shop patrons to Oasis stars. He was spotted at restaurants like Lunya, Australasia, and Tattu. Steve Lumb, a City content creator, recalled seeing him at Tast on Sundays, enjoying wine with friends. Guardiola also attended the Oasis comeback gig at Heaton Park with the Gallagher brothers' families.
Living in the City Centre
Unlike Sir Alex Ferguson, who preferred players in leafy Cheshire, Guardiola lived in the heart of Manchester. He first rented at Number One Deansgate, living near Mikel Arteta, then bought a penthouse at City Suites in Salford, where teammates David Silva and Ilkay Gundogan also lived. The building's lack of parking meant he often walked from public car parks.
Family Life
Guardiola's ex-wife Cristina Serra visited from Barcelona, and they were seen dining at The Ivy. His children Maria, Marius, and Valentina also featured in his local life. He played golf at municipal Fairfield course in Audenshaw with his son.
Love for the Arts
Guardiola enjoyed theatre, seeing West Side Story four times at the Royal Exchange. He also attended plays and was known to shop at Whole Bunch Wines in Prestwich, where owner Tom Sneesby described him as "lovely down to earth guys."
Travel Habits
When City played north London teams, they took the train from Manchester Piccadilly, using two first-class carriages. For south or west London, they flew via a private terminal. Eamonn captured Guardiola with his "game face" on at the station.
Farewell
Guardiola's final match is against Aston Villa. In his farewell, he said: "As my time comes to an end, be happy. Oasis are back again. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for trusting me. Thank you for pushing me. Thank you for loving me... Love you all." Steve Lumb summed up: "He's embraced the club, the city, the supporters. I'm gutted to see him go."
