Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that he finds inspiration in athletes from various sports, including tennis legends Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.
Guardiola admired their dedication, work ethic, and ability to maintain their peak performance for extended periods.
He cultivated a culture of mental strength, pushing his players to their limits in training, fostering a never-say-die attitude that mirrors Nadal’s relentless spirit.
Additionally, he emphasised composure on the pitch, reminding his players to focus on the game, not external pressures, echoing Federer’s unshakeable focus.
“They are true champions, not just because of their talent, but because of their relentless pursuit of excellence,” Guardiola said.
“Their dedication to their craft inspires me and many others.” Guardiola added.
Guardiola’s influence extends beyond his own teams. His open admiration for these tennis legends has sparked a conversation about the importance of mental strength in sportsmanship, inspiring coaches and athletes across various disciplines to embrace the psychological aspects of achieving excellence.
“True champions are made, not born. Their hard work and dedication are an inspiration to us all.” Guardiola said.
“By openly admiring these tennis legends, I hope to highlight the importance of dedication in achieving excellence.
“This inspires athletes and coaches across various sports to embrace the hard work required for long-term success.” he added.
Guardiola lead City to a historic treble win in the 2022/2023 season, achieving the remarkable feat of securing the Premier League title, the FA Cup, and the Champions League.
This accomplishment cemented his position as one of the most successful and influential managers in football history.
The race for the English Premier League title is heating up this season, and City certainly faces stiff competition from both Liverpool and Arsenal.
Liverpool leads the table with 60 points, followed by Manchester City with 56 points and Arsenal with 55 points.
