Pep Guardiola: 'I really want to coach Neymar'

Pep Guardiola surprised fans by publicly referencing Neymar as one of the greatest unfulfilled goals in his coaching career. The Spanish strategist affirmed that he has always hoped to have the chance to guide the Brazilian star.

Pep Guardiola made notable remarks about Neymar in an interview with OKX, recalling something he never had the chance to do throughout his coaching career. The Spanish manager asserted that the Brazilian forward is one of the most exceptional talents in world football and has always earned his great respect.

Pep Guardiola said, even though he has coached many top stars like Lionel Messi, Kevin De Bruyne, and Erling Haaland, he has always harbored a desire to work with Neymar. However, that never became a reality due to circumstances. This statement quickly drew attention, as the Manchester City boss spoke openly for the first time about one of his biggest aspirations in his coaching career.

"I really want to coach Neymar. I have always hoped for the opportunity to lead him as a manager. It's not something I regret, it simply couldn't happen," Pep Guardiola shared. While admitting this was something he always wanted, the Spanish manager emphasized that he does not see it as a regret, because the two sides never had a suitable moment to collaborate.

Not only expressing his desire to work with Neymar, Pep also praised the Brazilian forward's peak period at Barcelona. According to him, Neymar possessed an artistic playing style, standing out with smooth and refined touches. That was also the time when the 1992-born striker maximized his qualities in the colors of the Catalan club.

"His fluidity, the beauty in every touch of his, especially during his peak... I think Barcelona with Luis Suarez, Messi, and Luis Enrique was an unstoppable team. Unfortunately, I had to face them when I was coaching Bayern Munich," Pep added. Under Luis Enrique's guidance, the trio of Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Luis Suarez was once considered one of the most fearsome attacking lines in modern football history.

Pep's latest statements once again show the high regard he has for Neymar, despite the fact that the two have never had the opportunity to work together in the same team. After a successful period at Barcelona, Neymar moved to play for several clubs before returning to Brazil to continue his career. Although his journey has experienced many ups and downs, his talent and what he once displayed during his peak years are still enough to make a top manager like Pep Guardiola publicly express his admiration.