Called arrogant, Guardiola responds to Capello: I am not strong enough to destroy Italian football

2025-03-15 14:13:00, Sport CNA

Called arrogant, Guardiola responds to Capello: I am not strong enough to

Pep Guardiola has responded to Fabio Capello's comments, which he described as "arrogant", saying that Manchester City's success during his time at the club has contributed to the improvement of the Premier League.

In an interview with Spanish newspaper El Mundo, the former England, AC Milan and Real Madrid manager said Guardiola's arrogance has cost him several Champions League titles. According to Capello, the Spaniard has always wanted to show that his tactics are the reason for City's success, but this has hindered him in some crucial matches.

Furthermore, the 78-year-old Italian accused Guardiola of "ruining" Italian football, as many coaches have tried to copy his style of play with numerous passes and ball possession, without having the right players to implement it.

But Guardiola, who has guided Manchester City to six Premier League titles and a historic Champions League triumph, has dismissed the criticism. He has stressed that his impact in England has been positive and that competition in the league has become stronger during his tenure.

Manchester City are having a tougher than usual season, currently sitting in fifth place after dominating the last four seasons. However, Guardiola sees this as a testament to the improvement of the Premier League and the impact he has had on the league.

"When a great coach, one of the best like Fabio Capello, makes a statement like that, I don't think it's arrogance. We have helped to raise the level of the Premier League. Teams have invested more in the transfer market, are better organised, have better structures and make smarter decisions. Every team has good players.

"When I first went to Bournemouth, it was different. When I first went to Brighton, it was different. Even at Fulham. But now, after nine years, the Premier League has changed a lot. It is a much stronger championship and that is something positive," Guardiola said.

Capello's criticism is not new to Guardiola. The rivalry between them dates back to the Spaniard's time as a player at Roma in 2002. Capello, known for his pragmatic style, did not see Guardiola as a fit for his system and left him out of the team for most of the season.

This clash seems to have continued even now that both are coaches. However, Guardiola did not want to enter into a long debate and gave an ironic response. "I hear everything that is said about me, so be careful! It is not the first time that Mr. Fabio Capello says something like this. I am not capable enough to destroy Italian football, it is very important. A big hug for Fabio," concluded the Spanish technician.