GUARDIOLA ACCEPTS PRESSURE

In his first press conference as the Bayern Munich manager, Pep Guardiola has stated that he knows the pressure that will come in his way, but he is prepared to handle it. Guardiola has replaced Heynckes as the manager of Bayern Munich after a year long sabbatical.

In his four years at Barcelona, Guardiola has managed to establish himself as one of the biggest names in world football. He led the Spanish club to an unprecedented 14 titles during this period including two Champions League titles as well.

One of the main reasons for his incredible popularity is the style of play that he adopted on the way to the successes. However, he will have a hard act to follow after Bayern Munich managed to lift all three major titles available to them last season. This included their fifth European cup as well. Guardiola has said that he will also accept any comparison between him and the former manager. He has arrived at the Allianz Arena on a three-year contract, and already there is talk of Munich becoming the next dominant force in world football.

Guardiola has said that the main reason behind accepting the challenge and offer from Bayern Munich was the history and the tradition of the club.

"I must accept the comparison. I have to be able to live with that. I am under pressure, of course, but I know this and I accept this challenge without fear and that is why I am the coach. What I feel now is a gift, a blessing to be here to be with Bayern and the very thought about me as the coach is a gift," said Guardiola in his first press conference as the Bayern Munich manager. He was also welcomed by Bayern Munich chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

Tags: