Linked by their precepts and their origins, Pep Guardiola and Xavi Hernandez will face each other on another field in the coming weeks.
They have all been united for two decades: their tactical ideas, their philosophy of play and life, their Catalan origins and their love of FC Barcelona. Linked in what amounts to a master-pupil relationship, Pep Guardiola and Xavi Hernandez hold each other in high esteem.
The two technicians will perhaps have the chance to cross paths in a big Champions League match during this 2023-24 campaign. But while waiting to find themselves in official competition, they will be competitors for a prestigious individual distinction. Guardiola and Xavi are indeed named in the category of best coaches of the 2022-23 season for the FIFA The Best trophy.
Guardiola’s biggest favorite
The body revealed this Thursday the list of appointed technicians. And there is little doubt about the outcome of the vote, Guardiola being the overwhelming favorite after his fantastic Champions League-Premier League-FA Cup treble with Manchester City. Xavi, for his part, led Barça to a Spanish championship title. In addition to the two Spaniards, the Italians Simone Inzaghi and Luciano Spalletti, as well as the Australian Ange Postecoglou complete the picture.
