‘He destroyed the principles’: Iniesta on Guardiola’s influence on football

Former Barcelona midfielder, Andres Iniesta has opened up on his deep admiration for his former coach, Pep Guardiola, admitting he destroyed the principle of football.

Guardiola is often regarded as one of the greatest football managers in history. The Spaniard has won it all and has worked with top football players.

Iniesta will make the list of top football players who played under Pep Guardiola. The talented midfielder has now revealed that Guardiola had a significant influence on him during his formative years as a player.

He also expressed that Guardiola was not only a mentor but also a role model whom he looked up to while growing up.

“Pep was my role model, so imagine him being my manager,” said Iniesta in an interview with La Liga.

“His period was amazing and he destroyed all the principles of football. Some people may not like this, but it’s the truth.”

This era, under Guardiola’s leadership, saw Barcelona reach new heights, winning numerous titles and earning widespread acclaim for their unique style of play.

Iniesta played a huge role in Guardiola’s success at Barcelona. The talented midfielder formed a good partnership in midfield with Xavi Hernandez who also coached Barca and Sergio Busquet.

Talking of statistics, Iniesta, on his part, played 181 matches under Guardiola, scoring 23 goals and providing 53 assists.

Guardiola’s style of play which was based on teamwork, ball control, and strategic planning left a lasting impact on Iniesta and his teammates.

Barcelona were unbeatable under Guardiola and his influence at the club can not be undermine. Guardiola’s principles has become the foundation of Barcelona’s playing style, which was characterized by quick, precise passing and maintaining possession of the ball.