Pep Guardiola gave his first impressions after Manchester City's ban from European competitions, and while at it, he ended up aiming what seems to be a massive dig at Barcelona's president, Josep Maria Bartomeu.
Speaking in the post-match press conference after the Citizens defeated West Ham 2-0, Guardiola slammed Bartomeu's comments about how Manchester City's sanction was "well deserved". Needless to say, Guardiola did not take those comments lightly and ignited a fire between himself and one of the top execs of his former club.
"So, they're happy with our ban? Barcelona shouldn't call themselves taller than us, because they also could get involved in a situation such as this one. I don't know if they spied on me, but they didn't need to, they know me," Guardiola said.
The former Bayern boss went on to discuss how Manchester City is ready to go all the way in their search for the truth before they have to watch the next two UEFA Champions League editions on their TV set.
"We are going to fight like we have fought every single game and day we are together until the end of the season. We are optimistic that at the end the truth will prevail and next season we will be in the Champions League," the boss added.
Before he concluded the press conference, Guardiola revealed that there's no doubt in his mind about where he will be coaching next year, regardless of which European tournament his team gets to play.
"If they don't sack me I will stay here 100% more than ever. First because I want to stay. It's something special, more than the contract I have. I said before, I say now I want to stay and help the club and maintain this level as long as possible. Why should I leave? When I said I love this club I like to be here, why should I leave? No matter what happens I will be here next season," Guardiola concluded.
