As one of the most distinguished tactical maestros in the footballing world, Pep Guardiola rarely shows his true feelings in front of the camera. No matter how exhilarated or exasperated, the Manchester City manager always manages to keep his emotions in check and conducts himself like a seasoned diplomat.  

However, that was not the case on the final day of this thrilling Premier League season on Sunday.  

After witnessing the departing Sergio Aguero showcase his sumptuous finishing skills once again by scoring twice in City's 5-0 dismissal of Everton, Guardiola couldn't help but break down in tears during a post-game interview in which he spoke about City's all-time record goalscorer in glowing terms.

"Sergio helped alongside us to bring this club to the level we have now, he's a special person. He has this gift that his mum and dad gave him, or God, and he will always have it," beamed Guardiola. 

"We love him so much. He's so nice. He helped me a lot… We cannot replace him, we cannot. There are many players in this club – Joe Hart, David Silva – who helped us to be this club. We have his legacy." 

Aguero's decisive contribution against Everton meant that the Argentinian superstar finished on 184 goals for City in the Premier League, eclipsing Wayne Rooney's 183 for a single club in the English top flight. 

Guardiola revealed that it was the striker's choice to come off the bench rather than start the game. "We spoke yesterday (about) how he felt, and if he wanted to play in the beginning," he said. "He decided maybe the last 30 minutes, but he didn't tell me he only needed 30 minutes to score two goals!" 

"It was the perfect end and a fairytale moment," he added.

Next up for Aguero could be a move to La Liga giants Barcelona. "Maybe I reveal a secret," Guardiola told British media. "Maybe he is close to agreeing a deal for the club of my heart – for Barcelona. He is going to be playing alongside the best player of all time, Messi." 

"I'm pretty sure he is going to enjoy (it). And maybe Barcelona are stronger and stronger with him on the pitch," Guardiola observed. 

Aguero will leave with many memories and trophies. He was presented with a shirt showing the time of that famous goal against QPR in 2011, which clinched City's first Premier League title, and a lifelong season ticket. A giant mosaic has been displayed at the club's training ground featuring his first City goal in 2011, and a statue outside Etihad Stadium will be erected in the coming months.

Speaking at a special ceremony held for him following the team's trophy lift and lap of honor, Aguero told 10,000 adoring supporters who had waited 459 days to see their heroes in the flesh, "I want to say thanks to everyone, the staff but also the fans."

After being thrown into the air by his teammates, Aguero carried on celebrating with the Premier League trophy before vanishing into the tunnel one last time. 

He will be sorely missed.