Redaction Simon Brett with Srinivas Sadhanand
Published on 2024-01-25 09:30:00
Arsenal legend Martin Keown is of the opinion that Pep Guardiola is the greatest manager in the history of football. Guardiola, known for his unique tactical genius, has received widespread acclaim for his impact on the game. Keown believes that Guardiola has surpassed legendary managers like Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho, and Jurgen Klopp.
Even during his time at Barcelona, Guardiola’s first managerial job, he was already being hailed as one of the best managers in the game. His spells at Bayern Munich and Manchester City further reinforced his reputation as a revolutionary figure in football.
Interestingly, while some believe that Guardiola needs to achieve certain milestones in his career to be considered the greatest, Keown is convinced that Guardiola’s impact on the game makes him the undisputed number one. He points out that Guardiola’s style of play has influenced teams across English football, showcasing the lasting impact he has had on the sport.
“If I am picking my greatest manager, he [Pep Guardiola] has to be number one. Then there are Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho and Jurgen Klopp”, he wrote in his column for the Daily Mail.
“Guardiola is my number one. Then there are Sir Alex Ferguson Arsene Wenger Jose Mourinho and Jurgen Klopp. I am not listing them one to five.”
Martin Keown also pinpointed why those who continually slate Pep Guardiola are incorrect in their criticisms of him.
“I am not listing them one to five. There are four who are very close — and then Guardiola. Critics might say he has the big budget and the best players, but he is using it to a maximum”, he said.
“His style is rippling through English football. Teams from here to the far reaches of the land, even in Sunday pub leagues, are playing out from the back. Beat the press, keep the ball, use it quickly. The Guardiola Effect. It will remain long in the memory.”
The fact that an Arsenal legend like Keown acknowledges Guardiola’s greatness speaks volumes about the Catalan manager’s influence. Despite his close association with Wenger, Keown recognizes the unparalleled impact that Guardiola has had on English football.
Keown’s assertion that Guardiola is the greatest manager of all time is backed by his belief that Guardiola’s innovative style of play and tactical approach have elevated him above his counterparts. His ability to make the most of his resources and his lasting impact on the game have solidified his position as the greatest manager.
Ultimately, Keown’s acknowledgment of Guardiola’s greatness serves as a testament to the Spaniard’s unparalleled influence in the world of football. Guardiola’s impact on English football and his innovative tactical approach have cemented his status as the greatest manager in the eyes of Keown and many others in the football world.
Read Original article on Manchester City News
