Pochettino on Guardiola's struggles: 'He's a real manager now'
United States coach Mauricio Pochettino has weighed in on Pep Guardiola's difficulties at Manchester City this season, offering a sympathetic perspective on the challenges faced by the reigning Premier League champions.
Manchester City's decline has been one of the most surprising storylines of the season, with the team trailing leaders Liverpool by a staggering 22 points and facing a battle to qualify for next season's Champions League.
Pochettino, who has faced his own share of challenges during his managerial career, believes that Guardiola's current struggles are a testament to his growth as a coach.
"I am 100 per cent convinced that Guardiola today is a much, much better coach – and it is difficult for him to be a better coach – because he is suffering things that sometimes we suffered in the beginning," Pochettino said.
In a nod to Guardiola's ability to navigate adversity, Pochettino added: "He is a real manager now!"
