Pep Guardiola allegedly pied Lionel Messi in discussions about a surprising move to Manchester City.
During their time together at Barcelona, Messi excelled, scoring an incredible 221 goals in 219 games and becoming the world’s best player.
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In 2020, there were speculations about a potential reunion after Barcelona’s Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich.
Messi, with a year left on his contract, believed he was a free agent due to the extended exit clause amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reports suggested Messi expressed interest in joining City, reaching out to Guardiola. The book “God Save Pep” by Marti Perarnau, a journalist with access to the City boss, reveals the close proximity of the transfer.
Messi reportedly contacted his longtime friend Sergio Aguero to inquire about Guardiola’s tenure at the Etihad Stadium. Subsequently, he arranged a meeting with Guardiola at his Barcelona home.
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Messi, familiar with Guardiola’s coaching methods, learned about changes from the former Bayern Munich coach during their discussion.
He stated: “In Manchester we train very hard and I make long tactical talks. Maybe you’ll get bored.”
The Argentine superstar wasn’t fazed though, replying: “I will train hard, I’m not worried. I will put up with everything you do.”
However, Guardiola remained unconvinced and delivered a brutal putdown to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
The book claims he told him: “Leo, we have grown older. Maybe we can’t stand each other anymore.”
Messi ultimately stayed with Barca for an additional season, emerging as the top scorer in La Liga.
Despite securing the Copa del Rey, financial constraints within La Liga’s salary regulations prevented Barcelona from retaining him.
Consequently, Messi departed for Paris Saint-Germain, where he spent two seasons before embarking on a new phase of his career with Inter Miami.
