Pep Guardiola also stated that the 16 players representing Manchester City at the FIFA World Cup 2022 would gradually return to club duty. Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, stated on Wednesday that he has no doubt that Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time and that his opinion would not change even if the forward did not lead Argentina to the World Cup title in Qatar.
Messi led Argentina to an emotional 4-2 penalty shootout victory over France on Sunday. The final ended 3-3 after 120 minutes of breathtaking action, and Messi scored twice more in the shootout.
The 35-year-old, who played under Guardiola at Barcelona and won many trophies, also won the Golden Ball for best player. Supporters said that his performance made him more famous.
Before his team’s League Cup fourth-round matchup with Liverpool on Thursday, Guardiola told reporters, “Everyone has (an) opinion, but nobody can doubt that he’s there as the greatest of all time.” I think he’s the finest, and I find it hard to imagine how another player could compete with what he’s done. Those who have watched Pele,
Alfredo Di Stefano or Diego Maradona may have sentimental opinions, but if Messi hadn’t won the World Cup, my viewpoint and theirs wouldn’t have changed either. According to Guardiola, the city’s 16 tournament participants would gradually return to club duty. Six players returned today.
They had an amazing, one-of-a-kind experience. Ideally, they return and function admirably and in four years they can have one more involvement with Canada, Mexico, and the US,” Guardiola said. Compared to Rodri or Manuel Akanji, Sergio (Gomez), Erling (Haaland), Riyad (Mahrez), and Cole (Palmer) lack a little rhythm.
I have no concerns regarding March or April. Every player has had a different manager and played in a different league, and we have an important game tomorrow against Leeds United (in the Premier League). We want them back as soon as possible because the January schedule is demanding.”