5 reasons why Pep Guardiola is truly special
Josep Guardiola Sala, more familiarly known as Pep in the footballing world, needs no introduction. The current Manchester City manager is one of destiny's favourite to have embraced the game. Pep has created a long-lasting legacy in his career, both as a player and currently as a manager.
Let's take a look at 5 reasons that make us believe he is truly special:
#1: A footballing legacy beyond his current managerial exploits
From joining Barcelona's fabled La Masia at just 13 years of age, to progressing through the youth ranks to mark his debut for one of the best teams in the world is no mean feat.
Pep was a technically gifted player who evolved as one of the finest central defensive midfielders of his generation. His abilities as a deep-lying playmaker are highly applauded by pundits and fans alike.
Pep is, perhaps, one of the most distinguished disciples of former Dutch Legend, Johann Cruyff and his philosophy of "Total Football". He was at the heart of Cruyff's "Dream Team" which won Barcelona's first European Cup in 1992 and four consecutive La Liga titles from 1991 to 1994.
Pep earned 47 caps for the Spanish National Team and was a part of the Olympic Gold medal winning squad in 1992. He also represented Spain at the FIFA World Cup in 1994 and the UEFA Euro in 2000.