Former England manager Fabio Capello has launched a scathing attack on Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, accusing him of doing “tremendous damage to football.” Capello’s criticism centers on Guardiola’s perceived arrogance and the influence of his tactical approach on the sport.
Capello, known for his candid opinions, has long been critical of Guardiola. He believes Guardiola’s arrogance has cost him several Champions League titles, as the Spaniard often tries to be the protagonist in key matches. Capello noted that Guardiola’s only Champions League win with City was the exception, where he didn’t overthink tactics in decisive games.
Capello also lamented the impact of Guardiola’s possession-based tactics on Italian football. He argued that coaches have spent years trying to emulate Guardiola’s style, which has “ruined” Italian football by causing it to lose its unique identity. Capello criticized the trend of goalkeepers playing the ball, describing it as a “disaster” that has made the game boring and driven fans away.
Guardiola is facing a challenging season with Manchester City, who are significantly behind Premier League leaders Liverpool. Despite his success in the past, Guardiola’s team has struggled this term, including an early Champions League exit. Capello’s criticism comes as City prepares for crucial matches, including an FA Cup tie against Bournemouth.
In summary, Capello’s critique of Guardiola highlights concerns about the impact of his tactics on football’s overall appeal and the influence on other coaches. While Guardiola remains highly respected for his achievements, Capello’s comments reflect broader debates about the evolution of football tactics and their effects on the sport’s entertainment value.