Rivaldo backs Pep Guardiola to return to Barcelona in the future – ‘There is a strong bond’ | OneFootball

Manchester City have suffered this season defensively and look like a shadow of their former selves.

While they were soaring in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League not too long ago under Pep Guardiola, the Spanish tactician himself has struggled to help the team cope with their deficiencies this season.

Given his struggles at the club and the perennial topic of a potential return to Catalonia, there is food for thought of the time finally being right for the Barcelona legend to return home.

Rivaldo backs Guardiola’s return

Speaking to the media in a recent interview, Barcelona and Brazil legend Rivaldo was asked if Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s return to Catalonia was a possibility in the future.

“If Barça does not win and Guardiola leaves City, a return to his beloved club could be a possibility. There is a strong bond and the Culés love him,” he said, admitting he is a fan of the idea.

Things are not going well for Man City this season. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

While Guardiola’s tactics have not been working this season, he has proven time and time again to have what it takes to manage elite clubs and Rivaldo emphasized the same.

“Pep can go to any great team in the world. If one day he decides to leave City, he will not lack options.”

The Barcelona legend then admitted that, in his eyes, Guardiola contemplating his future away from Manchester was not unlikely given the Blues’ situation.

“I think Pep will be reflecting on his future, thinking about whether his cycle has reached the end.”

Finally, he emphasized that with Hansi Flick going strong with Barcelona and the team shining bright, a managerial change was far from possible.

“But about the Barça option, Flick is now doing well. I don’t think that possible return can be given for a few years.”

Source: SPORT