Pep Guardiola has countered Arne Slot's recent comments on management, stating that a team's style of play matters more than trophies long-term. The Manchester City boss had a brutal reality check, where he bounced back that aspiring managers prioritize silverware for career success.
Slot, who succeeded Jurgen Klopp in 2024, is going through a challenging season, and amid all this, the Reds boss made the statement that Liverpool sits mid-table, sparking debate on whether aesthetics outweigh results in elite football, and Guardiola didn't sit back to respond immediately.
Guardiola schools Slot on what really matters in management
During a recent press conference appearance, Guardiola was asked about Slot's comments on the style of play being more important than winning silverware. The City head coach replied:
"If you want to be a manager, it is better to win trophies. Otherwise, you don't have the chance to play nice football!"
He further said:
"I think everything is related; as much as you win, you play good."
Hence, Guardiola countered Slot’s philosophy that the style of play isn't something you can sustainably achieve or maintain without first securing results and titles. Because, without trophies, even the best ideas about style get questioned or dismissed quickly.
As seen, several football managers were sacked this year, most recently, Xabi Alonso’s departure from Real Madrid has been the highlight of the sackings. Slot’s job is also in line with Liverpool’s struggling season.