Pep Guardiola: Open Arms

A few years back I remember seeing Pep wear a yellow ribbon whilst in the Manchester City banquillo (dugout) during the 2017/18 season, the season that they became centurions. Around this time in Catalonia, Spain, there were many prisoneros políticos (political prisoners) on the back of a failed independence movement. Prisoners, like Pep, who were proud to be Catalan. For their beliefs, they were incarcerated. To show his support, Pep wore a yellow ribbon, an Amnesty sign of solidarity with those prisoners. This move went against the Premier League's law that out-ruled any form of political messages at football matches, but the City coach was happy to pay the fine. It was a cause he was passionate about, one that he wanted to share with viewers from all over the world. Since then, I have been a big fan of our Pep and what he stands for.

Source: independent.co.uk

In keeping with his beliefs, Pep has never been one to shy away from showing his stance on humanitarian causes. There is no need for him to do so, yet his morals compel him to do just that. Whether that be in the context of Catalan politics or about the current refugee crisis, Pep, with his equipo (team) alongside, have always been willing to use their platform to raise awareness about causes that would not otherwise reach a British audience. From here, already established as one of the greatest managers in the game, his recent acts on the touchline have made people aware just how many strings to his bow this Catalan man has in his arsenal.

The Open arms campaign

For those of you that regularly watch the Barclays, you will have noted the unique sense of fashion for which Pep is synonymous with. Big cardigans, Stone Island jumpers and always a pair of pumps, he clearly likes a statement. However, in a more refreshing sense, he has put the glamorous garms to one side, opting for a staple grey hoodie instead. One that reads 'Open Arms' in red emboldened font across the front. Immediately, it stands out because it is irregular for Pep to opt for such a toned-down bit of clobber. As a result, it encourages a bit of research into why he has been wearing it during City's matches for the past few weeks.

Source: 90min.com

When I did some research into it, I was very pleased with what I found out. Open Arms is a Barcelona based, non-profit organisation that dedicates their resources to helping refugees that attempt to come to Europe by the sea. A treacherous means that often ends in the fatality of many people looking to better their lives in a more prosperous environment. Their journey is often characterised by overflowing vessels that are not equipped nor prepped for the open seas and the unforgiving conditions that await. The NGO was established in 2015 by Catalan entrepreneur and activist, Òscar Camp, on the back of learning about the severity of the refugee situation in and around Greece and Turkey. Alongside their current communications and projects director, Laura Lanuza, they knew it was time to act. Their vision was to set up a team that would aid in welcoming these refugees with Open Arms from their base in Catalonia.

Source: nonprofit.xarxanet.org

Pep's link to the Open Arms organisation date back quite a few years now. Open Arms' ability to connect, on a deeper level, with people of similar beliefs was the clave (key element). Pep himself came forward to get to know the organisation because they matched his values. He, along with Barcelona legend, Xavi, got themselves involved with financial backing for Open Arms. It is believed that some 90% of their funding comes from private investors, like Pep and Xavi, as they are not yet backed by government bodies. From direct investment, Pep has been able to ensure repairs to Open Arms' boats that go out to monitor and rescue vessels in the sea that have refugees trying to access mainland Europe. Xavi himself auctioned off his own yacht to help Open Arms raise funds to keep going. Long may it continue, chicos.

Another side to Pep

This article has looked raise awareness around the work that Pep does off the field to ensure other people that see the world like him, are able to keep on making the world a better place. The notoriety of Pep's most recent act of humanity is a welcome change and should act as a precursor to football managers standing up for what is right. We see the fantastic work of Marcus Rashford and the positive changes he has brought about, why shouldn't more managers come forward and take a stance at the injustices in the world. What I have loved hearing is that Pep has, over the past few seasons at City, got representatives from Open Arms into the training ground to give a talk to the players about the seriousness of the situation that faces refugees today. Only with education will we overcome prejudice. Now more than ever those in the world of football can use their position to bring about changes in society that are I think are very welcome. You can stay up to date with the wonderful work of this NGO with the Open Arms Twitter Account.

Gràcies, Pep.

Source: archyworldys.com