Pep Guardiola and Lionel Messi formed a formidable partnership during their time together at Barcelona, breaking numerous records and dominating the European stage. Guardiola’s tactical genius and Messi’s incredible talent made them nearly unbeatable.
One of the most significant changes Guardiola made during his time at Barcelona was shifting Messi into the “false nine” position. This move paid off, as Messi scored an astonishing 91 goals in a calendar year in 2012.
Despite their success together, a reunion between Guardiola and Messi seemed unlikely. However, it has been revealed that the two came close to reuniting at Manchester City in 2020. According to author Martí Perarnau, conversations between Guardiola and Messi suggested that a move to Manchester City was a possibility.
Perarnau quotes a conversation between the two, where Guardiola told Messi, “We train hard in Manchester.” Messi replied, “Doesn’t bother me. I’m ready for hard work.” Guardiola also warned Messi that he still gives long tactical talks and that Messi might get bored. However, Messi was undeterred, saying, “I’ll cope, I can cope with anything you throw at me.”
Despite their enthusiasm for a reunion, the move never materialized. Messi remained at Barcelona for another year before leaving for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021. He has since moved to Inter Miami, and it seems unlikely that he will ever play under Guardiola again.