One of the contenders to succeed him at Manchester City has been hailed by Pep Guardiola as one of the sport’s “most influential managers.”
After Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Chelsea, City’s status as the Premier League winners for the third consecutive year was officially announced over the weekend.
Guardiola significantly rotated his team for that game and let his team enjoy themselves that night, but with two cup finals coming up, it’s time to get back to work.
This is partially because City will use their final two league games as a warm-up for the FA Cup and Champions League finals, but it’s also because Guardiola will be facing off against a top-tier opponent.
After taking over for Graham Potter in September, Roberto de Zerbi has had an outstanding debut season at Brighton, leading the Seagulls to Europa League qualification.
The Italian coach has developed a fiercely aggressive style, and some fans and media have even suggested that he will one day succeed Guardiola as City’s manager.
Who said what, Guardiola?
Guardiola outlined why De Zerbi is a special coach in his remarks prior to City’s Wednesday trip to Brighton.
The City manager claimed that Roberto was “one of the most influential managers in the last 20 years.”
“They play in a way that no other team does; it is distinctive. When he entered the Premier League, I have a strong impression that he would have a significant impact.
In this brief period, I couldn’t have anticipated. In every game, [his team] produces 20–25 opportunities. Their keeper acts like a holding midfielder, and the ball is monopolised by everyone.
“If you don’t play well, he can do as he pleases. They have earned the praise and achievement they have received.
“I make a lot of effort to study, and it’s special, like a Michelin-starred restaurant. The top chef in Catalonia completely transforms the cuisine; Brighton is playing a unique role. The way they move is distinctive. For us, it presents a tremendous challenge.
Guardiola responded when asked what he had picked up from De Zerbi:
“The moment for decision-making. Brighton is an expert at both passing to the man in the free position and knowing when to do it. The appropriate timing for movement.
For tempo and the pass to the open guy, they are the best team in the world. How assertive Potter was without the ball instilled something incredibly positive.
“How they handle the keeper in the process. I move and pass the ball when my opponent does. They are the best when the tempo is appropriate.