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Xavi: Pep will change English football

Cape Town - Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez believes the incoming Pep Guardiola will "change the the face of English football" when he takes over at Manchester City.

Xavi, now plying his trade in Qatar with Al Sadd, played under Guardiola for four years at Barcelona, winning fourteen trophies in that time.

"It is a big opportunity for him at Manchester City. I think he will change the face of English football,” the 36-year-old said.

"If there is anyone capable of changing that mentality, it is Guardiola. It is a great opportunity but there will also be a lot of pressure, because everyone always expects a lot from Pep Guardiola.

"But he is without doubt one of the best coaches in the world at the moment."

Guardiola will take over from Manuel Pellegrini, who finished fourth with City this season.

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