Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said his third Premier League title, secured on Tuesday after a lockdown-impacted campaign, was the toughest he had won so far.

City, who could complete a rare domestic and European double if they beat Chelsea in May 29 Champions League final, ended their wait to be confirmed as league winners when second-placed Manchester United lost at home to Leicester City.

“This has been a season and a Premier League title like no other,” the Spaniard said.

“This was the hardest one. We will always remember this season for the way that we won. I am so proud to be the manager here and of this group of players.

“They are so special. To come through this season — with all the restrictions and difficulties we’ve faced — and show the consistency we have is remarkable,” he added.

A compressed campaign, caused by the stoppage to last season due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, made for a gruelling schedule with little respite.

But the former Barcelona boss said his players had risen to the challenge.

“It is relentless. Every single day, they are there, fighting for success, trying always to be better. They have been so, so resilient,” he said.