Cityzens boss Pep Guardiola has labelled another Premier League manager as one of the most influential football coaches in the last 20 years
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised his next opponent, Brighton’s manager Roberto De Zerbi, calling him one of the most influential managers in the last 20 years.
Guardiola extols Brighton’s De Zerbi
Manchester City have already clinched the 2022/23 Premier League title and will be given a guard of honour before their match against Brighton, but Guardiola still believes that Seagulls manager De Zerbi is a gaffer to be reckoned with.
The Italian manager led Brighton to the first European qualification in the club’s history by finishing in the UEFA Europa League group stage for next season after the Seagulls confirmed a place in the top six in the 2022/23 Premier League season.
Ahead of Manchester City’s fixture against Brighton, Guardiola spoke in glowing terms about his opposite number, De Zerbi, complimenting the Seagulls on the job well done, saying, “Congratulations for this incredible achievement in the Europa League. I think Roberto is one of the most influential managers in the last 20 years.
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“There is no team playing the way they play - unique. I had the feeling he would have an impact and it would be great – but I didn't expect them to do it in this short space of time.”
Guardiola explains what makes Brighton and De Zerbi special
Guardiola has been impressed by the way that De Zerbi has Brighton playing, and the Manchester City boss spoke with admiration about the team’s style under their Italian manager.
He said, ”Twenty or 25 chances, they monopolise the ball in a way it hasn't been for a long time, a keeper like a holding midfielder, if you don't play at a high level he can do whatever he wants against you.
“They deserve the success, and are a team I try to learn from. [They are like a] Michelin star restaurant, unique.
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“In Catalonia, the best cook changed the cuisine, and Brighton are playing with something special and it's an incredible challenge.”
Speaking in detail about Brighton’s style, Guardiola explained exactly what made them special saying, “The right tempo and the free men. How aggressive they are with the ball is the same as [it was under previous manager Graham] Potter, and the way they do the process and use the keeper, when to pass the ball, they are the best.”
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Neither Brighton nor Manchester City are desperate for points at this stage of the season, having already had their seasons decided, and they could play an interesting game of football on Wednesday as a result.
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