11 players Pep Guardiola turned into stars at Manchester City
After a decade of success, Pep Guardiola is set to leave Manchester City. We look at 11 players whose careers were shaped by the Catalan manager.
Photo: bbc.sport
After a decade of unprecedented success, Pep Guardiola is nearing the end of his tenure at Manchester City. Since his arrival in 2016, the manager has transformed the club into a footballing superpower, securing 19 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League.
Guardiola's influence extends beyond mere silverware; his ability to reinvent positions and cultivate world-class talent has defined his era. Players like Kevin de Bruyne evolved from wide attackers into commanding midfield leaders, while Rodri developed under his tutelage to become the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner.
The transformation of Raheem Sterling into a prolific goalscorer and the tactical revolution led by goalkeeper Ederson highlight Guardiola's impact on individual development. Phil Foden stands as the ultimate academy success story, proving Guardiola's commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
The list also includes Ilkay Gundogan, the manager's first signing who captained the treble-winning side, and Kyle Walker, whose defensive pace was vital to the system. They are joined by club legends David Silva and Bernardo Silva, alongside modern icons Erling Haaland and John Stones, all of whom played pivotal roles in building the legacy of the Guardiola years.