Pep Guardiola: “Sergio Busquets will become an exceptional manager”

Arsenal’s defeat to Nottingham Forest on Saturday saw Manchester City lift their fifth league title under Pep Guardiola. City took advantage of their game against Chelsea to celebrate more Premier League success with two games remaining this season. The Catalan coach explained the need to maintain their sharpness in their next two games to be ready for the FA Cup final against Manchester United on 3 June and the Champions League final against Inter a week later.

City take on Brighton in Premier League

During his press conference ahead of the Brighton game, Guardiola also spoke about Roberto De Zerbi’s side. Ilkay Gündogan, who is out of contract with City this summer, was another of the main talking points, as was Sergio Busquets, a player Guardiola worked with during his time at Barcelona.

Will you rotate your team for the next two games?

The two teams we have to play in the league deserve our full attention. We have some players with injuries, and although the finals are our main objective, we have to play as well as possible and be as focused as we can in these next two games. They are two good opponents.

Have you been impressed with De Zerbi’s season at Brighton?

A lot. Congratulations for this incredible achievement to be in the Europa League. Roberto is one of the most influential managers in the last 20 years. There is no team playing in the way they play, it’s unique. I have the feeling when they arrive in the Premier League, the impact would be great. I couldn’t expect it in this short time.

[They] create 20/25 chances in each game. He monopolises the ball, everyone is involved, the keeper is like a holding midfielder. If you don’t play at a high level, he can do what he wants. They deserve the compliments and success that they have. I try to learn a lot [from them], it’s unique, it’s like a Michelin-star restaurant. The best cook in Catalonia changed completely the cuisine, and I think Brighton is playing unique. It’s special, the way they move, a good, incredible challenge for us.

Is there any news about Gündogan?

I can’t tell you because I don’t know.

Busquets leaving Barcelona

Is Busquets’ departure the end of an era at Barcelona?

No, this type of club is never the end of an era. Players arrive and leave. His impact as a holding midfielder in 15/20 years is massive. These clubs have the talent to reorganise and rebuild. One title is not enough. Barcelona is difficult, they were able to win LaLiga but lose in the Champions League semi-final and it was a disastrous season. All the club push for the next steps, that’s when you become one of the best clubs in the world.

He was the best, he reads everything that happens, he anticipated and read the situations. He didn’t move much from the centre... he could solve all the problems with his brain. It was fascinating to work with him and learn of him. I said privately, but I wish him… and he will become an exceptional manager.