Pep Guardiola has insisted that FC Barcelona’s derby-match versus Espanyol will require organization on the part of the Catalans.
The two bitter rivals will meet at Cornella-El Prat on Sunday, with Mauricio Pochettino’s side poised to give Barca all they can handle.
The Catalan boss is expecting a competitive match, claiming that his side and Espanyol play similar football.
“We try to take every game seriously but this is the derby – a fixture where there has been many games which makes us know what to expect and what we are going to find,” Guardiola told reporters.
“If we are not in good shape, we will be in trouble. Espanyol play well and are a team with a similar philosophy to us, even if we do have the greater purchasing power. It is certainly a special event during the year.”
Andres Iniesta Injury Update
Guardiola also provided an injury update on Catalan midfield maestro Andres Iniesta, suggesting that the Spanish international should be fit enough to take part in the derby on Sunday.
“He [Andres Iniesta] will have a medical but he almost certainly will [be available],” he added.
“We will decide on the team later on. I will see how they all are and decide on that but it looks like it could be good news.”
Iniesta, who suffered a muscle tear in a 9-0 defeat of Hospitalet in the Copa del Rey, has bagged four goals for the Catalans in 2011-12.
January Transfer Window
Despite losing David Villa for the rest of the season due to a broken leg, Guardiola was quick to admit that Barcelona are not looking to make any new January signings.
“We are not looking to sign anyone this month, we’re happy with the players we have,” said the Barca boss.
IFFHS Coach of the Year
Guardiola, who was named International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) coach of the year for 2011, was as humble as usual when discussing his award.
“These awards are given because the team have won, not because I’m necessarily the best,” he said.
“I do not consider myself better than my colleagues. I’m at a club with a philosophy, purchasing power and good players coming through the system so we must not give too much importance to this award.”
It’s hard not to consider Guardiola the best of the best at the moment.
In fact, his managerial record is quite ridiculous to be perfectly honest.
That being said, will Pep lead Barca to a victory versus Espanyol on Sunday?
Let’s just say that I would not bet against him.
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