Xavi Hernandez Describes Pep Guardiola As the Best Coach by Far

• Barcelona have landed in Manchester ahead of their crunch Europa League game against Man United
• Xavi had high praise for Pep Guardiola who he described as an inspiration and the best coach by far
• The two Spanish coaches were first national teammates and then coach and player at the Catalan club

Barcelona are getting ready to take on Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League, and Xavi has praised for a certain manager before the game.

He heaped praise not on Erik ten Hag but Pep Guardiola, who he shared the pitch with as both teammates and as coach and player.

As reported by the Manchester Evening News, Xavi labelled Guardiola as an inspiration.

The best coach by far

He added the Man City boss was the manager who had the most positive influence on the Premier League.

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"I think that foreign coaches have had a positive influence on the Premier League. Guardiola is the best coach by far."

Xavi recalled playing under him and said the difference between Guardiola and all other coaches - himself included - was immense.

"Pep is a genius in every sense of the word. He’s not human, he’s different, absolutely different, it’s oversize," Xavi added.

Pep praises Xavi

Xavi and Guardiola were once teammates and the Barcelona manager also played under his countryman at the Catalan club.

As a result, they've developed a close friendship over the years. Guardiola even had high praise for Xavi when the latter was appointed as Barcelona manager, The Mirror reported.

"He knows the club and will bring positive energy, given how he enjoys football and because of his dedication. He always sees the positive side of things," the Citizens boss said.

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"With his class, dedication and effort, I’m sure he’ll improve the club’s situation."

Guardiola will be keeping a close eye on his friend as Xavi's side take on his city rivals in the second leg of their tie. The two sides drew 2-2 in Spain and Barcelona have already touched down in Manchester for the return leg.

Barcelona eye trophy haul

Barcelona have already won one trophy this season and are looking to add more silverware before the end of the season. They have an eight-point lead in La Liga and are in the semi-final of the Copa del Rey.

Xavi equals Pep's incredible record

Pep Guardiola is referred to as one of Barcelona’s best managers in history, but Xavi is set to eclipse the Spaniard’s records with the Catalan giants this season.

La Blaugrana are now on a 16-game unbeaten run after their latest La Liga victory, as Pedri’s goal secured a slim 1-0 win against Villareal, Sports Brief also reported.

Xavi has now matched Guardiola's finest winning streak at Barcelona, with 11 consecutive victories in all competitions.