Manchester City is facing a period of uncertainty, with not only Pep Guardiola‘s future in question but also the departure of director of football Txiki Begiristain and an ongoing independent investigation into alleged financial breaches, which City strongly denies.
During an appearance on an Italian talk show, the host tried to tempt Guardiola with the idea of managing in Serie A. The City boss, who previously played for Brescia and Roma, responded lightheartedly, saying he’d only return if football legend Roberto Baggio came along as his assistant. As reported by the Express, Guardiola reminisced about his time with Baggio at Brescia, saying, “Future in Italy? Only if [Roberto] Baggio accompanies me as assistant.”
Guardiola expressed his deep admiration for Baggio, stating: “I knew him when he was nearing the end of his career and battling a knee injury, yet he was still the strongest. I can only imagine what he was like in his prime. He’s loved everywhere.”
Reflecting on his own storied career, Guardiola jokingly hinted that he might be the “best” manager because he won league, cup, and Champions League trebles with two different clubs. He also paid tribute to his coaching mentor, Johan Cruyff, calling him the man who made him “fall in love with football.”
“He taught me so much tactically, but even more as a person,” Guardiola said. “He was a genius, one of a kind. I can’t imagine my life and career without him.”
As Guardiola and his Manchester City squad continue their quest for a historic fifth consecutive Premier League title, they face Wolves on Sunday.
City are also eager to reclaim their European crown. With a revamped Champions League format featuring 36 teams in a single-phase league, including tough competitors like Inter Milan, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain, Guardiola’s squad will be looking to navigate through the group stage and push for another shot at European glory. This could be the last chance for Guardiola, Kevin De Bruyne, and other key players who have helped City dominate English football in recent years.
