Khaldoon al-Mubarak disclosed that Pep Guardiola issued resignation warnings on numerous occasions during his Manchester City spell, likening the repeated statements to the classic tale of The Boy Who Cried Wolf from Aesop.

Guardiola departed the club last month following a decade of achievement that delivered 17 major trophies. He began with a three-year agreement and accepted four contract extensions across 2018, 2020, 2022 and 2024, though each renewal came after hesitation. Mubarak, who positioned himself as Guardiola's personal advisor, played a key role in persuading him to remain.

"We have grown very close over time. He may not acknowledge it, yet I view my role as his personal counselor," Mubarak explained. "I supported him through various challenges across the years. Recall the fable of The Boy Who Cried Wolf. With Pep, declaring 'I am leaving' does not indicate an actual departure.

"Such statements should not be viewed literally, and careful handling is required. He never anticipated remaining beyond four years, then five. In his thinking, even during years four and five the question persisted about additional time available.

"I maintained a clear agreement with Pep throughout. When he expresses a desire to depart or senses the moment has arrived, I will seek to retain him until I recognize the genuine point where he truly intends to move on.

"Certain instances prove temporary and require intervention to restore perspective. Yet one occasion would eventually prove authentic."

The fable tells of a young shepherd who repeatedly fabricates danger from a wolf, leading others to ignore his final genuine call.

Mubarak recognized the difference when Guardiola expressed a sincere wish to exit. "He understood, and I understood that he did, making the decision appropriate and natural for him," the chairman noted. "I offered no resistance because I recognized this instance carried real intent."

With Enzo Maresca prepared to succeed Guardiola, Mubarak expressed confidence that City would sustain its trophy-winning form. "We remain well short of our peak. Comparing the club from 2008 when Sheikh Mansour acquired it to developments over the subsequent 18 years shows clear progress.

"Roberto Mancini delivered the initial Premier League title in 2012, moments we will always cherish. That era brought an FA Cup triumph the prior year. Manuel Pellegrini followed with another league title and further achievements. Pep then instilled a winning mentality and culture throughout the organization.

"This remains a club structured and developed for success. Pep elevated standards further, and we remain grateful for his contributions to our foundation."

Mubarak spoke prior to Enrique Riquelme, a Real Madrid presidential hopeful, displaying a club shirt bearing Erling Haaland's name and suggesting a contractual clause might permit his signing if successful in the election.

Although City indicated potential legal measures, Mubarak highlighted Haaland's importance. "From his arrival in summer 2022 he demonstrated leadership qualities. His presence brings strong character and presence, and as a prolific goalscorer he naturally assumes a leadership position through his personality."