Hugo's head start can give Blues advantage

PEP Guardiola is rightly hailed for the way he has conquered and changed world football, but critical to his success at two of his three clubs has been sporting director Txiki Begiristain.

- SIMON BAJKOWSKI

Having anointed him as Barcelona coach when Jose Mourinho was the more established pick, Begiristain has also been at Guardiola's side for every second of his time at City after convincing him to move to England.

In words that are as relevant about the club's difficulties now as they have been about the immense successes that have been enjoyed, Guardiola spoke in 2019 about the importance of the recruitment team.

“I think the most important department in the club is the scouting department,” he said. “Much more than managers and players. When they choose well 80 per cent of the job is done.