“The president told me” – Pep Guardiola refused in efforts to sign Barcelona stars for Manchester City

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, Barcelona will host Manchester City in their first official pre-season friendly. Pep Guardiola will face his former club, which he spoke about in the media before the match.

Lamine Yamal was one of the topics discussed by Guardiola. He admitted to being stunned by the 17-year-old's performances over the past 12 months – quotes via AS Diary.

“He is extraordinary. Rodri tells me wonders about Yamal. He must have something special. If Xavi gives him his debut (at that age), it is for a reason. But I am sure he will have ups and downs, he will be calm because he has a lot of career ahead of him. He's where he deserves to be.

“The academy never fails. This generation does not know what their parents gave them, but they go like the plane. Cubarsi, Pedri, Balde, Lamine and many others. The base has always been them and signing great players from abroad. They know better than anyone the idiosyncrasies of the club and the pressure.”

Guardiola spoke highly of these La Masia talents but also revealed that he had been warned about signing someone from his old club by Joan Laporta.

“They are too good. They are not for sale – the president told me. And I do not say it ironically. In fact, Barcelona they signed more players from Man City than the other.