Pep Guardiola called Erik ten Hag a “lovely person and an extraordinary manager” following Manchester United’s victory over Manchester City in Saturday’s FA Cup final.
Ten Hag’s United prevailed 2-1 at Wembley thanks to first-half strikes by teenagers Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
An 87th-minute goal by Jeremy Doku set up a nervous finish but the Red Devils held on to end City’s 35-game unbeaten run in all competitions.
Guardiola suggested after the game in an interview with BBC Sport that his City side had played better than United.
However, he was also full of praise for Ten Hag.
Saturday’s final could prove to be Ten Hag’s last game as United boss.
It was reported by The Guardian on the eve of the final that United’s owners had already decided to sack the Dutchman regardless of the result at Wembley following a disappointing Premier League season.
Discussing Ten Hag’s situation following Saturday’s match, Guardiola told the BBC: “They have to take a decision.
“He’s a lovely person and an extraordinary manager.
“Winning the FA Cup is important for them like last season it was for us.”
Ten Hag has been in charge of United since May 2022.
Saturday’s game was his 114th as Red Devils boss.
He has now overseen 66 wins, as well as 31 losses and 17 draws.
United finished eighth in the Premier League this season – 31 points behind champions City.