Prince William's secret note to Pep Guardiola post-FA Cup win

The Prince of Wales shared a personal message with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola yesterday, following their victory over Chelsea to claim the FA Cup.

Prince William, marking his 20th year as President of the Football Association (FA), observed the game where City achieved their second title of the season.

A match that had been fairly calm sprang into action when January acquisition Antoine Semenyo performed a spectacular flick from Erling Haaland's pass to score in the bottom corner, giving City the lead.

Chelsea walked away with dignity intact, maintaining control of the ball for much of the match yet failing to truly challenge Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, with only one shot on target.

Referee Darren England dismissed several penalty appeals from the Blues, as both Joao Pedro and Jorrel Hato hit the turf. Neither incident was deemed a clear mistake.

However, in the end, it was Guardiola's formidable team that claimed yet another win, securing his 21st title in Manchester and his third FA Cup.

As the team joyfully climbed the famous Wembley steps to accept the trophy, the Spaniard received his winner's medal from the prince, who expressed his admiration with appreciative words for the famous coach.

"Another victory, hey," William remarked as he placed the medal around Guardiola's neck, adding: "Congratulations Pep, well done."

Similarly, His Royal Highness extended his congratulations to John Stones, who is set to leave this summer, acknowledging "another victory," even though he did not participate in yesterday's match.

William then passed the trophy to departing icons Stones and Bernardo Silva in a touching moment, allowing them to share the joy of lifting the trophy before the 30,000 Manchester City supporters at Wembley.

Before lifting the trophy, Silva, who will be leaving City after nine years and 19 titles, told the BBC: "It’s wonderful to end on this note.

"We still hold a small hope for the Premier League; we’re going to give it our all against Bournemouth to keep that dream alive."

This week, the Prince of Wales celebrated 20 years since he assumed the role of President of the FA, succeeding his uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who had held the position for five years.

To honour his milestone, the prince visited England manager Thomas Tuchel and his team at St George's Park, engaging with the "team behind the team" boosting England’s World Cup effort.

William interacted with coaches, analysts, and medical personnel, gaining insight into how Mr Tuchel crafts his strategies and cares for players ahead of the prestigious tournament.

He was subsequently gifted an England shirt with the number 20 on it, acknowledging his two decades of service to the organisation.