Guardiola finds it unable to hold back tears

Abu Dhabi: Barcelona fans in the stands went wild with jubilation, so did the players who hugged and kissed each other as they waited for the prize-giving after winning the Fifa World Cup against Estudiantes de La Plata.

But the man who orchestrated their success which culminated in their sixth trophy of the year on Wednesday — Pep Guardiola — could not hold back the tears as he stood in the middle of the pitch.

The Barcelona coach who a few years ago was one of the club's finest players and is now coach achieved something unparalleled in world football, covered his face with his hands to hide his tears.

"These things happen from time to time" Guardiola said about his tears and profusely thanked his team for the historic success. "I want to thank the players for all the months they have given us. They have played very well at times, doing what people enjoy. I will never forget that it was them who have made me great," he said.

Before going into management, Guardiola was a class footballer who played almost all his career at FC Barcelona before going onto spells in Italy, Qatar and Mexico.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Guardiola insisted that it was not him, but his players, that everybody should be thanking.

‘Unthinkable'

"It was very difficult to achieve what we achieved" he said. "It was something very hard to do.

"Winning six titles in a row was unthinkable; I didn't think I'd be strong enough to do that. There have been a lot of factors involved: very few injuries, a group of players that play because they enjoy it, mental strength..." he said.

Looking to the future, Guardiola said, "We have to carry on working. We have a very nice squad and can continue competing. What will keep us among the elite is hard work, because the talent is already there."