Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola admits that he still holds Roma close to his heart, as he prepares to face his former side tomorrow.
The retired midfielder spent the first part of the 2002-03 campaign in the Italian capital, and he has revealed that his affection for the Giallorossi has not wavered in the years that have passed.
Bayern Munich boss Pep Guardiola admits that he still holds Roma close to his heart, as he prepares to face his former side tomorrow.
The retired midfielder spent the first part of the 2002-03 campaign in the Italian capital, and he has revealed that his affection for the Giallorossi has not wavered in the years that have passed.
“With this Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi, Italy is an extraordinary country,” Guardiola has explained in today’s Press conference.
“I visit [Italy] often, as it is very similar to Catalonia’s culture of doing things.
“I have wonderful memories of the city and the club, as I lived there with my family. In the summer, I often come if I can. Brescia was also very important, and I learned a lot from Carletto Mazzone.
“I know how football lives in Rome, with such passion, and it’s why I'm glad to come back here.”
Guardiola was talking ahead of tomorrow evening’s Champions League group stage meeting at the Olimpico.
Guardiola then spoke of his admiration for ex-Roma team-mate Francesco Totti, having played alongside the veteran forward during his stint at the Olimpico.
“Roma will be a difficult challenge for us. Whoever wins does not qualify, as there are still points up for grabs.
“I've always said that this group will be decided at the last hurdle. It will be a great opportunity for us to test our form.”
]Despite gaining maximum points from their first two matches in their group, Bayern failed to truly convince in the tournament.
“I must say that the manner of our victories in the Champions League show that we have to improve a lot, but we are only in October,” the 43-year-old noted.
“We know that if we don’t put in a great performance tomorrow, it will be difficult to win [the group]. [Roma] have great players and everything to win.
“I spoke with my players and they've been warned. I invite all of you to see a great game against Roma.
“Rudi Garcia? It is not easy for a foreigner to come to a country and impose his philosophy, but he has pulled that off.
“I believe that Antonio Conte has done incredibly well with the approach of playing out from the back. Roma also do this, and it is why these two teams are at the top.
“It’s a joy to watch Roma play, as a spectator. We have watched them not only in the Champions League but also on Saturday in the League against Chievo. I hope not to suffer tomorrow.”
Francesco Totti is a former teammate of Guardiola’s and heads into this fixture with a new record as the Champions League’s oldest goalscorer, thanks to his effort at Manchester City last matchday.
“If at age 38, you are playing like this, your passion is undeniable. He's perfect for Garcia’s style of play.
“At this age, with all the money he has and having been elected as King of Rome, to continue playing shows his great passion [for the game] because he could easily stay at home.
“It means that he still loves football, and it’s my satisfaction to see him again. His inspiration doesn’t come without the ball. The Coach makes him play and still have this desire.
“I hope he continues like this – me being on the bench and him on the field. It’s as it was when I was at Roma as a player!”