Graeme Souness has played down Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola’s accomplishments as a manager.
When it was suggested to him that the 53-year-old was a genius for his achievements in the dugout, Souness claimed that Guardiola has been fortunate to work with elite performers during his time at the Etihad:
“He took over an exceptional group of players in every case. City are the richest team in England and they only needed the slightest bit of tweaking when he took over.”
“He obviously manages players very well, but there is no genius there. It is just about having the best players. If you have an average manager with great players, then you have a chance at being successful.”
Guardiola is one of the greatest managers in the history of the sport
When you look at the City’s track record in management, it is hard to deny that he is up there with the very best coaches of all time.
Guardiola has lifted an astonishing 38 major trophies during his career (including 11 league titles) with three different clubs. He has also won the Champions League on three occasions, which is an accomplishment that only four managers can match.
City fans will hope Guardiola stays beyond next season
As things stand, the Catalan will leave the Premier League champions when his contract expires in the summer of 2025.
Guardiola has not ruled out extending his stay in Manchester and, when asked about his future in recent months, he hasn’t given any hint that he is ready to leave.
After signing his previous extension midway through the final season of his last contract, it’s fair to assume that Guardiola will take his time to decide on any future contracts. Considering his remarkable record since arriving in England back in 2016, City supporters will be desperate for him to remain in charge.