10 greatest players to have played under Pep Guardiola

Modified Sep 03, 2020 10:58 GMT

Pep Guardiola has managed some incredible players like De Bruyne, Messi, Lewandowski and Iniesta

#7 PHILIPP LAHM - BAYERN MUNICH

Philipp Lahm was one of the best defenders in the world during his prime

Already regarded as one of the best right-backs in the game prior to Pep Guardiola's arrival, Philipp Lahm reached another level under the Spaniard.

The 36-year old was converted into a midfielder by Guardiola in an inspired move, where he excelled immediately. An intelligent player with excellent passing and positioning ability, Lahm became the fulcrum of Pep Guardiola's Bayern Munich, also acting as club captain.

The dimunitive right-back enjoyed a storied career for both Bayern Munich and Germany, before announcing his retirement in 2017.

#6 MANUEL NEUER - BAYERN MUNICH

Manuel Neuer before a Bayern Muncich game

One of the best goalkeepers of all-time, Manuel Neuer has arguably revolutionised the goalkeeping role.

Neuer joined Bayern Munich from Schalke for €30 million in 2011, and immediately became their first-choice shotstopper. An athletic goalkeeper, Neuer became renowned for his passing ability under Guardiola, often starting attacks; his ability to come off his line earned him the moniker "sweeper-keeper".

The 34-year old is the captain of both Bayern Munich and Germany, and played a key role as the Bavarians recently won the treble under manager Hansi Flick.

#5 KEVIN DE BRUYNE - MANCHESTER CITY

Kevin De Bruyne in action for Manchester City

The best player in the Premier League last season, Kevin De Bruyne has become one of the best midfielders in the world.

The 29-year old has gained fame for his creativity, passing, vision and crossing, and is regarded by many as a "complete" footballer. De Bruyne runs the midfield for Pep Guardiola, with his incredible natural talent and technical ability often coming handy.

On this day in 2015, Manchester City announced the signing of Kevin De Bruyne ✨ 🏟 222 appearances⚽️ 57 goals🅰️ 89 assists🏆 8 trophiesIt’s been some five years 😳 pic.twitter.com/6MOugOkmmH
— Hayters TV (@HaytersTV) August 30, 2020

Expand Tweet

The Belgium international, who cost Manchester City €75 million from Wolfsburg in 2015, tied the record for most assists in a Premier League season last season and subsequently won the Player of the Season gong.

#4 ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI - BAYERN MUNICH

Robert Lewandowski in Bayern Munich colours

Regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, Robert Lewandowski arguably should have been the recipient of the Ballon d'Or this season, had there been one.

The Poland international joined Bayern Munich from Borussia Dortmund on a free in 2014, and is now seen by many as one of the best Bosman signings ever. An extremely prolific goalscorer with strong technical skills and aerial ability, Lewandowski has led the line well for the Bavarians.