Guardiola unveiled to fans as city make new signing
City boss meets the fans at special event, whilst new signing is announced.
Pep Guardiola was showcased by Manchester City as their new manager, as part of a Question and Answer session with supporters.
Almost 6,000 fans made the journey to see the 45 year-old Spaniard, who arrived in Manchester having signed a three-year deal with The Blues.
With the Club announcing the arrival of the promising Ukranian midfielder Oleksandr Zinchenko from FC Ufa, it appears Guardiola will be looking to create a strong youth setup in order to challenge for the title.
Having won the Bundesliga in his final season with Bayern Munich, Guardiola suggested he wanted to make the transition to Manchester to test himself in England’s top flight.
“That is why I am here,” he said.
“I proved myself where I was born in Barcelona and after I proved myself in Germany and I want to prove myself here.
“To try, every game, every weekend that Manchester City play, that the people can be proud and enjoy our way to play. At the end, we will see what is our level to achieve our prizes, our titles.”
Since beginning his managerial career in 2007 with Barcelona, Guardiola has captured fans and players alike with his possession-based football.
However, the new boss warned City supporters to be patient and allow him time to learn about his new players and their abilities.
“You will see when we are going to play the first game,” he added of the style he intends to implement.
“First I have to meet my players; I have to know them. I know them from TV but I have to know them, I have to hug them, kick their a*** and after I need time to know them. I have an idea but I need time.
“One of my dreams would have been to play here like a football player, it was not possible and now my dream has come true,” he said.
“I prove myself if I am able to be a good manager here in England, that is the reason why. I come here to learn, learn about the way the people live here, for my family, for my kids. That is why I was curious to move in Europe and learn about what it means to live in England.”
Former Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan and Spanish International Nolito have already joined the 19-year-old Zinchenko as new signings at the Etihad.
However when quizzed by a fan, the new boss Guardiola stated that the club would not pursue Barcelona star Lionel Messi.
“He's not a bad player, this guy, but I am sorry Messi has to stay in Barcelona for the rest of his career,'' Guardiola replied.
Guardiola’s first game in charge will see him return to face his former side, as City travel to the Allianz Arena on Wednesday 20th July.