Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised West Ham’s performances this season ahead of their visit to the Etihad Stadium tomorrow. Guardiola, who looks set to lead the citizens to another Premier League trophy, has also hailed David Moyes for his calmness in the dugout.
The Spaniard said that the West Ham manager lives “a Buddha life’, Moyes is often found striking a relatively relaxed figure on the touchline. Especially this season as the Hammers are doing so well in the Premier League. Guardiola has also shared how friendly Moyes is to other managers and the help he gave him when he first arrived in the League.
"“Like Carlo Ancelotti, everything is calm. They live like a Buddha life! David Moyes, I admire these kinds of people. Like Roy Hodgson – they have long careers. I would love these kinds of careers…He always takes care of me. My first game in England was against Sunderland. He was there and was so kind. He gave me advice on how to handle the Premier League.”Guardiola on David Moyes"
Moyes has been considered as one of the best managers in the Premier League this season. The Scottish manager could be going up against Guardiola for the manager of the season if West Ham qualifies for the Champions League.
West Ham take on Manchester City in the Premier League; both clubs are in the top four and will want to earn a crucial victory.
The Hammers have turned their fortunes around since Moyes was reappointed to the hot seat. When Moyes arrived at the club, they were in a relegation battle and are now competing at the top of the League in just over a year. Guardiola has suggested that West Ham deserve to be where they are and are not just on a good run of form.
"“The season will speak for itself – he [Moyes] knows football perfectly….After I don’t know how many games we played, they are in a Champions League position. That is not a good run, that’s many months, and they are there.”Guardiola on West Ham’s season"
David Moyes’ side will have to be on their best form if they are to pick up a result against the Citizens. Guardiola does think, however, the Hammers will be a “tough” challenge for his side and is conscious of the threat that Michail Antonio will pose to his defenders.
The last time the two sides met, they played out a competitive 1-1 draw at the London Stadium. Antonio scored a stunning overhead kick before Phil Foden equalised in the second half. Since then, City have climbed to the top of the table and are currently on an 18 game-winning run.
"“They have that experience to do this. It will be a really tough game tomorrow, really tight. They are a good team…The rhythm they play is better now than other seasons…Antonio is always a headache for his movements – he is dangerous.”Guardiola on West Ham match"
If West Ham wins, it could cement their position in the top four of the Premier League ahead of the season run-in. However, the Hammers have not beaten Manchester City at the Etihad since 2015 when Victor Moses and Diafra Sakho scored in a 2-1 victory.