Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola and his wife, Cristina Serra, have officially started divorce proceedings after 30 years together. The couple, known for keeping their personal lives private, is reportedly using the same lawyer to ensure a smooth and amicable settlement.
Spanish showbiz journalist Lorena Vázquez confirmed on a national TV program that the couple had initiated legal proceedings six weeks after their separation became public knowledge. She emphasized that both Pep Guardiola and Serra are focused on handling the divorce with mutual respect and minimal disruption to their family.
“Surprisingly, they are working with the same lawyer to arrange everything,” Vázquez said. “They want to ensure the process remains as cordial as possible, especially for the sake of their children.”
Cristina Serra’s Growing Discontent
Reports suggest that the decision to separate was influenced by Pep Guardiola’s unexpected contract renewal with Manchester City. In November 2023, he extended his stay in England until 2027, a move that allegedly frustrated Serra, who had long hoped for his return to Spain.
Serra, a successful fashion entrepreneur, relocated to Barcelona in 2019 with their youngest child to focus on her business ventures. Sources indicate that her husband’s decision to remain in the UK for several more years was the tipping point in their marriage.
While Serra has avoided public commentary on their split, she was recently spotted shopping alone in Barcelona. When approached by reporters, she declined to discuss the reasons behind the separation, maintaining her characteristic discretion.
Guardiola Still Wearing Wedding Ring
Despite the ongoing divorce proceedings, Pep Guardiola has continued wearing his wedding ring, leading to speculation about his emotions regarding the split. Some sources claim he may still hold hope for reconciliation, while others believe it is simply a sentimental gesture.
Vázquez commented on this during her television appearance, stating, “It’s surprising that he still wears his wedding ring. Perhaps it’s a tribute to their long marriage, or maybe it’s an open door to the possibility of reconciliation. What we do know is that Cristina is firm in her decision.”
Additionally, it has been reported that Serra is struggling with the newfound media attention surrounding her personal life. Having always preferred to stay out of the limelight, she reportedly feels uncomfortable being at the center of tabloid speculation.
Children’s Response to Their Parents’ Split
The couple’s children, Maria and Marius Pep Guardiola, have begun addressing the separation in their own ways. Maria, a 24-year-old social media influencer, recently shared insights about her parents’ philosophy on love and personal growth in an interview with Vanity Fair Spain.
“My parents always advised me to pursue what I’m passionate about,” she said. “They also remind me that the most important thing in life is to love and be loved.”
Meanwhile, their 22-year-old son, Marius, continues expanding his business ventures. He recently opened his fourth shoe store in Dubai under the Newcop brand, with Spanish media reporting that the launch brought “maximum happiness” to both his parents.
A Private Matter in the Public Eye
Despite their global fame, Pep Guardiola and Serra have consistently prioritized their family’s privacy. Their decision to keep the details of their separation confidential aligns with their longstanding approach to personal matters.
While speculation continues regarding the impact of Pep Guardiola’s career choices on their marriage, those close to the couple emphasize that financial concerns played no role in the split. The couple, both successful in their own right, is focused on ensuring the transition remains peaceful.
As proceedings move forward, it remains to be seen whether Guardiola will continue to wear his wedding ring or if time will bring further clarity to their separation. For now, both parties appear committed to handling their divorce with dignity and respect.
