The Catalan has spoken many times of his admiration for the widely travelled Leeds manager’s approach and philosophy to the game.
And ahead of his first meeting with the former Argentina, Chile and Athletic Bilbao boss as a rival manager in England, Guardiola was effusive in his praise for the work and impact of the Argentine.
“I think he’s (Bielsa) is probably the person I admire the most in world football as a manager and as a person,” Guardiola declared.
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“I think he is the most authentic manager all the time in terms of how he conducts his teams, he is unique. No one can imitate him, it’s impossible.
“My teams won more titles than him, but in terms of knowledge of the game, I am away from him. It is a good present, a good gift to have him in the PL.
“His teams are a joy to watch, how honest they are, and they always try to produce good football for spectators. It’s good to have him here.”
Play the video to watch Pep’s press conference in full...
