"I found him extraordinary" - Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola praises Barcelona star after pre-season friendly
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has praised Barcelona youngster Marc Bernal following their friendly in the US. The two sides played out a 2-2 draw and Barca won the penalty shootout 4-1.
Pau Victor (24') and Pablo Torre (45+2') were the scorers for La Blaugrana while Nick O'Reilly (39') and Jack Grealish (60') found the back of the net for the Cityzens. Bernal started the game for Hansi Flick's side in the middle of the park.
Speaking about Bernal after the game, Manchester City boss Guardiola told the media (via Tribal Football):
"I found him extraordinary, how he cotrols, how he plays."
Guardiola also praised Barcelona's positional play. He highlighted how the full-backs and the wingers operated efficiently throughout the game. Guardiola also pointed out that his former club's players know when to press and when to anticipate.
The Spaniard further highlighted that at clubs like City and Barca, there's no time for trials and performance is expected right from the word get-go.
Barca have started a new era under Flick following Xavi's bizarre dismissal saga at the end of the 2023-24 season. Club legend Guardiola has already endorsed the German's methods with his raving review after the friendly.
Barcelona youngster Marc Bernal's performance against Manchester City
Marc Bernal recently penned a new deal with Barcelona after turning down several offers from top European clubs. The La Masia product, only 17, played 74 minutes against Manchester City.
He boasted an impressive 92% passing accuracy, completing 33 of his 36 attempted passes. Bernal won three ground duels and one aerial duel. He also completed five interceptions and two tackles against the reigning English champions.
Bernal is touted to be the next big thing coming up from Barca's youth academies. The Spain under-17 international, who operates as a midfield pivot, could get opportunities in the first team this season.