Guardiola Warns Capello to ‘Tread Carefully’ Following Criticism of His ‘Excessive Arrogance’

Pep Guardiola has hit back at Fabio Capello’s assertion that he is “arrogant,” asserting that Manchester City’s achievements during his tenure have elevated the standards in the Premier League.

Capello, a former manager of England, AC Milan, and Real Madrid, stated in an interview with the Spanish newspaper El Mundo that Guardiola’s “arrogance has cost him several Champions League titles.”

The 78-year-old Italian went on to describe Guardiola as “excessively arrogant and presumptuous,” claiming that the City manager sought to demonstrate that his tactical approach was the key to the club’s extraordinary success.

Furthermore, Capello argued that Guardiola, who also had notable stints at Barcelona and Bayern Munich, has “ruined” Italian football by inspiring too many coaches to replicate his fluid, possession-based methods without possessing the requisite talent.

In response, Guardiola takes pride in his achievements, having steered City to six Premier League titles and clinched their first Champions League trophy since his arrival in 2016.

The Spaniard maintains that the quality of the Premier League has improved significantly throughout his time in Manchester, with City now contending with several teams, including this Saturday’s opponents Brighton, for a coveted top-four finish this season.

After winning the last four Premier League titles, City are currently experiencing a challenging campaign, sitting fifth in the standings.

“To mention one of the greats, an exceptional manager like Fabio Capello, doesn’t come across as arrogant to me; rather, we have helped lift the bar in the Premier League,” Guardiola commented.

“Clubs have had to enter the transfer market, right? Everyone is eager to improve, with well-organised teams, strong structures, smart decisions, and quality players across the board.”

“When I visited Bournemouth at the beginning, it was different. When I first went to Brighton, it was different. And when I went to Fulham, it was different.”

“I’ve been around for a while; I’m the oldest manager here, and I’ve seen the massive evolution of the Premier League.”

“It’s incredible how much they’ve changed, and that’s very positive for the Premier League.”

Capello contended that Guardiola’s desire to be the central figure led to questionable selection or tactical decisions in crucial matches that ultimately backfired.

This isn’t the first time the duo has had differing views.

Their contrasting football philosophies were evident when Guardiola played for the pragmatic Capello at Roma over twenty years ago, where Capello struggled to find a suitable role for the Spaniard and often excluded him from the lineup.

When asked about Capello’s comments specifically, Guardiola offered a succinct reply.

“I take note of everything people say about me, so be cautious!” he remarked.

“This isn’t the first time Mr Fabio Capello has made such statements. I’m not capable of ruining Italian football; it holds too much significance. A big hug to Fabio.”