For Morocco, this tournament is also about showcasing some world-class stadiums as it hosts a first AFCON since 1988.

The host country took a record 233 gold medals, far outstripping second-place Indonesia with 91 gold, and Vietnam at third with 87.

Guardiola has led City to six Premier League titles during his illustrious reign, amassing a wealth of knowledge about how to succeed in the gruelling English top-flight.

Motsepe said the change, along with the introduction of the Nations League, was made "to make sure the football calendar worldwide is more in harmony".