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Pep Guardiola is back in the saddle for his usual pre match press conference. He touched on a number of topics from the KDB extension, his admiration for Marcelo Bielsa and much more.
Let’s dive in-
“We are delighted with these players [who stay here for a long time] - hopefully more can join them,” he said.
“I can talk about myself. I have been here five years and I will be two more, if the situation goes well.
“The club helps us. I am glad Kevin who has the world in his hands and can play for anyone, decides to stay with us. It’s a big compliment for Manchester City.
“I am never involved in contracts - it belongs with Txiki and the club. But my personal opinion is I am more than delighted.
“Hopefully we can take a good step forward in the future.
“If the club is satisfied and Kevin is satisfied, there is a third person satisfied and it’s me. Congratulations to Kevin.”
On Bielsa-
“If there is one person who can find the secrets, it is him. His work ethic, his knowledge of the game...I know how tough tomorrow at 12.30pm will be.
“I hope we are prepared to compete. We are four games away and tomorrow is a big step.
“The players know from the first game how difficult it was and tomorrow will not be an exception.
“Being promoted last season, already safe with 42 points and seven games left - they have done incredibly well all season.
“I admire a lot of things they do, especially how they behave on the pitch. It doesn’t matter the opposition or competition. They demand you do things you are not used to.
“It’s a challenge. We are so close - we need three wins and one draw - and when you play at home it is an opportunity.”
Interesting comments. The admiration and inspiration Pep draws from Bielsa is evident. He is a true pioneer in football and is now getting some credit for it. He is an inspiration for hundreds of managers over the course of decades. Pep has perfected some of those tactics and that is why this match should be fantastic.