Guardiola’s admiration for De Zerbi ‘growing’

Pep Guardiola says his admiration for Roberto De Zerbi is ‘growing’ as Brighton have had many injuries this season, ‘but the way they play is always there.’

Guardiola spoke to reporters at a pre-match press conference ahead of tonight’s Premier League tie between his Manchester City side and De Zerbi’s Brighton.

It is no secret that Guardiola is an admirer of the Italian tactician and Pep confirmed his respect for the ex-Sassuolo boss in his latest meeting with reporters.

“My admiration for him is growing every season,” said Guardiola, as quoted by the BBC.

“They had a lot of problems and important players like Colwill, Caicedo, Mac Allister were sold. They have a lot of injuries and have played in three competitions, but the way they play is always there. He is doing an incredible job at Brighton.”

Brighton currently sit 11th in the Premier League table and have little chance of qualifying for a European competition. They are six points below 7th-placed Newcastle, although they have a game in hand.

De Zerbi was appointed by Brighton in September 2022 and led the team to a historic Europa League qualification in his first season at the club. The Seagulls had never qualified for a European competition before.

De Zerbi has won 37 matches from 83 at Brighton, drawing 19 and losing 27.