Pep Guardiola has dismissed Fabio Capello's recent criticism, calling into question claims that the Manchester City manager is “arrogant.” Instead, Guardiola underscored how his leadership has elevated the level of competition in the Premier League.
Capello, the former manager of England, AC Milan, and Real Madrid, stirred controversy in an interview with El Mundo, stating that Guardiola’s “arrogance has cost him several Champions League titles.” He went on to describe Guardiola as “way too arrogant and presumptuous,” alleging that the Spaniard’s determination to showcase his tactical brilliance as the cornerstone of City’s success often backfires in key moments.
In addition, Capello accused Guardiola of “ruining” Italian football, arguing that many managers attempted to emulate his possession-based style without having the players to execute it effectively.
Guardiola, however, defended his track record, highlighting City’s six Premier League titles and their historic Champions League triumph last season. He also countered Capello’s remarks by pointing to the Premier League’s evolution during his tenure, which he believes has only strengthened competition.
“Naming one of the big managers, one of the exceptional managers, in Fabio Capello—it doesn’t look like it’s arrogant, I would say, but we helped to raise the bar in the Premier League,” Guardiola commented.
Reflecting on changes in the league, he added: “The teams had to go to the transfer markets, right? People want to do good, people are well-organized, have good structures, make good decisions, have good players everywhere. I went to Bournemouth in the beginning, and now it’s different. I went to Brighton, and now it’s different. And I went to Fulham in the beginning, and now it’s different. The evolution of the Premier League has been massive. It’s incredible how they’ve changed and it’s good, really good, for the Premier League.”
Capello also suggested that Guardiola’s desire to be the “protagonist” in his teams’ tactical setups had led to questionable decisions in pivotal Champions League matches, costing City further European success.
This clash is far from the first between the two. Their football philosophies have been at odds since Guardiola's time as a player under Capello at Roma over two decades ago. The tension, it seems, lingers.
When asked directly about Capello’s latest remarks, Guardiola responded with his characteristic blend of wit and composure: “I listen to everything that people say about me, everything, so be careful! It’s not the first time Mr. Fabio Capello has said that. I’m not good enough to ruin Italian football, it is very important. A big hug for Fabio.”
The exchange adds yet another chapter to the storied legacies of these two iconic football figures, ensuring their rivalry continues to captivate fans and pundits alike.
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