The City boss admits he admires the Seagulls’ recruitment of players, managers and their playing style.
The Blues are just one point ahead of the Seagulls in the Premier League table ahead of Saturday afternoon’s Etihad clash.
And Guardiola says he is a big fan of how the south coast club have gone about their business over the past few seasons.
“I think Brighton are one of the best clubs working on and off the pitch,” said Guardiola.
“I think they started with Graham Potter, they made a step forward again under Roberto De Zerbi, and now with this exceptional young manager who’s doing incredibly good things.
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“It’s not a surprise I’d say, because they’re doing really, really well in the transfer market and the way they play.
“They’re absolutely one of the toughest opponents and in the past there are many teams who were in the middle positions or bottom or whatever, but they make an incredible step up in terms of organisation and consistency for many, many years, that’s the reality.
“It’s not a secret what they’ve been doing. They’re in this position because they’re doing good things, they deserve to be [where they are] in the table.”
