Pep Guardiola shares that he sees reflections of himself in his managerial protégés, Vincent Kompany and Xabi Alonso, as the Manchester City manager.

**Guardiola’s Legacy: The Birth of a New Generation of Managers**

Pep Guardiola, the mastermind behind Manchester City’s recent successes, has taken a moment to reflect on the profound impact he has had on the world of football management. In a heartfelt admission, he revealed just how much he misses his mentor, Johan Cruyff, the legendary Dutch innovator who shaped Guardiola’s early career at Barcelona.

Guardiola’s coaching journey began during his playing days at Barcelona, where he was under the tutelage of Cruyff. His thirst for knowledge led him to learn from other influential figures, including Juanma Lillo, his current assistant at City, during a brief playing stint at Dorados in Mexico. This rich tapestry of experiences has culminated in a managerial career that has seen him lift trophies at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and now Manchester City.

The ripple effect of Guardiola’s teachings is evident in the rise of a new wave of managers who have flourished under his guidance. The likes of Vincent Kompany, Xabi Alonso, Luis Enrique, Enzo Maresca, Xavi, Erik ten Hag, and Mikel Arteta have all been influenced by Guardiola, either as players or coaches.

As he prepares to lead his City side against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League this Saturday, Guardiola sat down with TNT Sports at the Etihad Campus to discuss his managerial philosophy, the ongoing rebuild at City, and the unforgettable memories he has amassed during his near-decade in Manchester.

When asked about the success of his former players turned managers, Guardiola responded with genuine pride. “Because they are so good!” he exclaimed. “At the end, they become successful. I have a high opinion of what they have done and what they are doing.”

He elaborated on the qualities that have contributed to their success, highlighting their passion for improvement, innovative ideas, and a relentless desire to learn. “I’m so happy for them because most of them are friends of mine,” he added. “In the time that we were together, they helped me a lot.”

Guardiola also reflected on the influence of Cruyff in his life, joking that the next generation of managers no longer seek his advice. “No, they know everything already,” he quipped. “The influence of Cruyff was so important; I miss him so much.”

As City continues to evolve, Guardiola is keenly aware of the changing landscape of the Premier League. With the intensity of the competition on the rise, he is looking for players who are not only physically strong but also mentally resilient. “The club has an incredible scouting department,” he noted, emphasizing that the future of City is in capable hands.

Looking back on his time in England, Guardiola feels he has grown significantly as a manager. “I improved a lot,” he stated. “I feel a much better manager right now than when I arrived.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by injuries this season but remains optimistic about the club’s potential.

Guardiola also took a moment to reflect on the defining moments of his tenure at City, stating, “I need two books to write the best memories.” He expressed gratitude for the experiences he has had, both good and bad, and highlighted the club’s commitment to its community during the COVID-19 pandemic as a testament to its values.

As he prepares for the upcoming match against Nottingham Forest, Guardiola’s legacy continues to grow, not just in terms of trophies but in the impact he has had on the next generation of football managers.

**How to Watch Nottingham Forest vs. Manchester City**

Fans can catch the action live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage starting at 11:00 UK time ahead of the 12:30 kick-off. TNT Sports is available across all major TV platforms, ensuring that supporters won’t miss a moment of the excitement.