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Lionel Messi sought reunion with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City

Nine-time Ballon D'Or winner met with Guardiola in 2020 to discuss joining Man City, but ultimately signed with PSG

News Desk July 21, 2024

Messi and Guardiola's time together at Barcelona is often regarded as one of the most successful periods in the club's history. PHOTO: FILE

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In a revelation from the biography "God Save Pep" by Marti Perarnau, it has been disclosed that Lionel Messi reached out to his former coach Pep Guardiola in 2020, exploring the possibility of a reunion at Manchester City.

The moment highlighted Messi’s desire to reconnect with Guardiola, under whose guidance he had flourished at Barcelona.

According to the biography, Messi, at the age of 33, reportedly visited Guardiola’s home in Barcelona to discuss the potential move. During this meeting, Guardiola expressed concerns about the challenges Messi might face joining Manchester City at this late stage in his career.

However, Messi was adamant, dismissing Guardiola's reservations about his ability to adapt and succeed in the Premier League. Despite Messi's enthusiasm and determination, Manchester City did not proceed with the move, ultimately allowing Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to secure the Argentine superstar's signature.

The transfer to PSG marked the end of Messi's long and illustrious tenure with Barcelona, surprising many who had speculated about a potential reunion with Guardiola.

The biography by Perarnau provides a unique insight into the dynamics between Messi and Guardiola. It underscores the mutual respect and admiration that exists between the two football icons.

Guardiola's coaching tenure at Barcelona from 2008 to 2012 is often regarded as one of the most successful periods in the club's history, with Messi playing a pivotal role in their numerous triumphs.

Had Messi joined Manchester City, it would have reunited him with not only Guardiola but also several other superstars, creating a formidable lineup.

The combination of Guardiola’s tactical genius and Messi's unparalleled skill could have significantly bolstered City’s quest for both domestic and European glory.

In the end, Messi moved to PSG, with the French club making a lucrative offer that Manchester City did not counter.