City take on the Brazilian giants on Friday evening in Jeddah and Guardiola admits he is captivated by their eclectic mix of experience and youth and the flair they play with.
From 1958 to 1982, Brazil were the team the world loved to watch, with their flamboyant mix of skill and technique entertaining millions of neutrals on their way to three World Cup triumphs.
But of all the thrilling Brazil teams, Guardiola especially recalls the 1982 squad who many believe are one of the best teams not to win the tournament - which was held in Spain.
Aged 11 at the time, Pep remembers the impression that great Brazil side - and others - left on him.
“(I see similarities), especially from the Spain 1982 World Cup,” he said.
“Definitely. I love it. I love the build-up of how they associate between each other.
“I know perfectly the way the team are going to play. When I was a little boy, the way Brazil had success with a lot of passes and combinations, so difficult to take the ball, one v one so quick.
“How they play in different rhythms, not just one. I saw it for many years. It’s time to adapt and adjust and hopefully they can adapt to us.”
CLUB WORLD CUP
Our final at the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup is available to watch in the UK on TNT Sports and FIFA+.For fans outside of the UK, click here to find out how you can watch the matches in Saudi Arabia.
The official Man City app will also have free live radio commentary as part of our usual Matchday Live show that includes studio guests previewing and analysing the action.
