Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola rejected the idea of manging Barcelona after current manager Ronald Koeman’s contract expires in 2022.
However, Guardiola advised new president Joan Laporta to hire Luis Enrique at Barcelona. The Spaniard believed Enrique was the perfect man to lead a new project.
Enrique was very successful during his spell at Barcelona as a manager, winning at least one trophy in each of his three seasons at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona won 14 trophies, including three league titles and the Champions League twice, during Guardiola’s reign before his exit in 2012. The relationship between both men has been good since then.
“No, in principal, I’ve no intention of ever coaching Barca again. I think that there are cycles in life and that mine at the club is finished.” Guardiola said.
“Koeman is the ideal coach for next season, I am very happy and the president is convinced. It has been a difficult year for everyone and Ronald deserves one more year, with people in the stadium.
“Besides, second years are always better. At times the team has played very well, they are among those who played better football in Spain.” Guardiola added.
Barcelona had significant doubts over Koeman and Laporta attempted to take Guardiola back to the club. The president convinced that former his teammate is the best option to replace Koeman.
“I am not here to talk about dreams, I am here to talk about realities. When we talk about Guardiola, the only thing in my head is that I hope he can win the Champions League this weekend.” Laporta said.
“That would be marvellous for him, and for those of us who love him. I have good friends there at City, I hope they win.” Laporta added.
Under Koeman, Barcelona have had a poor record last season. However, the Dutch manager was happy after his team won the 2020/21 Copa del Rey trophy.
