Sir Alex Ferguson has made the same 'painful' response presenting Pep Guardiola with the League Manager Association Manager of the Year award as he did for Jurgen Klopp's triumph last year.
The Manchester City boss scooped the Premier League Manager of the Year award after claiming their third successive top-flight triumph as they pipped Arsenal to the title. Mikel Arteta's side were seemingly runaway leaders throughout the campaign but the Citizens trudged back and overcame the challenge to retain their place at the pinnacle.
There was no place in the nominations for the Reds boss after their disappointing season. Despite their slow start which saw them meandering in mid-table but they refound their form and managed to qualify for the Europa League.
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Ferguson has an obvious disliking towards the Reds and their Manchester rivals following his successful spell at the helm at Old Trafford. With the Red Devils' recent struggles, it must have been difficult viewing as City and Liverpool both challenged for greater silverware.
As he handed over the prize, which is named after him, he made his feelings clear.
"Manchester City's Pep Guardiola... it's sore isn't it? It's really sore. But well deserved. As a team they've improved every year," he added.
"Winning three championships in a row tells you a story. I think their performances in the latter part when it really means something they produce top class performances."
His showing of pain in handing over the accolade isn't rare as he displayed similar sentiment last year when the German was handed the award.
"I say this is agony, absolute agony. Jurgen Klopp [wins the League Managers Association Manager of the Year," the Scot said.
The award came as Liverpool chased a quadruple where they ultimately fell short in the Premier League and Champions League. However, their penalty heroics saw them claim the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
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