Pep Guardiola's greatest U23 XI

Centre-Backs

Left Centre-Back

Gerard Pique

The future looked bright for Gerard Pique after he completed a successful loan-spell at Real Zaragoza in 2006-07. At Manchester United, however, he was unable to win a starting spot ahead of Vidic and Ferdinand. His disappointment turned to happiness when Guardiola signed him for Barcelona in May 2008.

On return to his boyhood club, Pique displayed terrific chemistry alongside veteran Carlos Puyol. Puyol's tenacity and discipline complimented Pique's technique and vision, and the pair became a nightmare for opposition attackers.

As a part of Guardiola's all-conquering side, Pique won the 2008-09 'La Liga Breakthrough Player of the Year' and 'La Liga Best Defender' in 2009-10 among a host of other honours.

Right Centre-Back

John Stones

Over a decade of his managerial career, Pep Guardiola has taken various mindboggling decisions. But the one that stands apart the most was signing John Stones from Everton. A sum of £47.5 million for a 22-year old defender was totally unheard of. This made Stones the second most expensive defender in history after David Luiz.

After a lukewarm debut season, Stones finally found his groove at City in 2017-18. Playing at the heart of Guardiola's three-man defence, Stones almost operates as an old-fashioned sweeper. Experts have praised his passing skills and ability to read the game.

After Matchday 16, City sits at the top of the league table, conceding just 11 goals. Not only has Stones justified his massive transfer amount, but also has shown potential to reach greater heights in the future.