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'I Would Like The Champions League But The League Is What Makes The Players Follow You,' Says Pep Guardiola

'I Would Like The Champions League But The League Is What Makes The Players Follow You,' Says Pep Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has explained the reason for why he prioritises the Premier League title over the Champions League.

Adnan Riaz

Adnan Riaz

Pep Guardiola has made a shocking claim about players following him over his domestic success rather than his progress in the Champions League.

The Manchester City boss, 48, enjoyed a monumental season as his side captured a historic domestic treble.

But the Spaniard has failed to win the Champions League during his time in Manchester and many have been quick to criticise him for it.

And now Guardiola has admitted that his success domestically is far more important than what he has done in Europe's elite club competition.

"Winning is very addictive and gives you energy. This gives you the league, no more competition," the ex-Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss told Catalan newspaper Ara.

"That's why when they tell me, 'But he has not won the Champions League,' I answer that I would like to clarify that I would like the Champions League, but the league is what makes the players follow you, because every three days you win.

PA

"Instead, when you lose, players stop believing in you. The league puts you in place.

"That is why I have had it, from managing the [Barcelona] B team, as the absolute priority.

"I cannot leave everything at random from a less controllable competition such as the Champions League or the cups, as they are in England."

Guardiola is putting plans in motion for City's title defence next season by targeting Atlético Madrid star Rodri and Juventus' João Cancelo to bolster his squad options.

PA

But the City boss recently dropped a bombshell that he would be returning to Barcelona "sooner or later."

He added: "But as president, forget about it.

"To be president, you have to know [what you're doing] and be prepared -- to have knowledge that I don't have.

"I'm trying to be a good coach -- that hasn't gone too badly in this decade. I will return to Barcelona to live, sooner or later."

Agree or disagree with Guardiola?

Let us know in the comments.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Manchester City, Football News, Football, Pep Guardiola, Premier League, EFL Cup, FA Cup, Champions League