IN AUGUST 2024, Dean Lewington, a defender for the MK Dons, took to the stage at the Manchester Opera House to receive his PFA Merit Award. When asked about the evolution of English football during his impressive 20-year career, which included nearly 1,000 appearances, Lewington took a moment to reflect and pointed out Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who was seated a few rows back. Guardiola was there to see Phil Foden receive his PFA Player of the Year Award, but Lewington’s acknowledgment shifted the spotlight onto him.
“Whether he realizes it or not, we all admire him immensely; I’m not ashamed to admit that,” Lewington remarked, as Guardiola appeared a bit uncomfortable. “We constantly discuss his innovations and ideas. His influence has undoubtedly shaped how we have approached the game today.”
“His impact on the evolution of English football has been monumental.”
WHEN GUARDIOLA, well-known for his positional play philosophy, eventually departs from Manchester City—potentially as soon as this summer—he will be remembered as one of the most accomplished managers in the history of English football. With six Premier League titles, six domestic cups, a Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup, and a FIFA Club World Cup trophy under his belt, the 54-year-old is often mentioned alongside legends like Sir Alex Ferguson, Bob Paisley, and Bill Shankly.
However, measuring Guardiola’s impact on the broader English football landscape can be more challenging. Traditionally, the lower leagues have emphasized physicality, long passes, and aggressive tackles. Nowadays, fans can witness third- and fourth-tier teams employing tactics like playing out from the back, utilizing false No. 9s, and having fullbacks step into midfield roles—all concepts that Guardiola has famously popularized.
Guardiola has often been hesitant to discuss his influence on other teams and leagues. In January 2020, prior to an FA Cup match against League Two’s Port Vale, the City manager was asked if he felt he had changed the English game.
“Please don’t put that pressure on me,” he replied. “This club plays in a way that aligns with our beliefs. English football has its unique style. Managers coach their teams based on their convictions, not merely copying others they see on television.”
This statement was echoed by former England striker and television pundit Gary Lineker, who took to social media to assert what Guardiola hesitated to say.
“He has arguably had the most positive influence on our game of anyone, ever,” Lineker tweeted. “While I hold Sir Alex’s achievements in the highest regard, Guardiola has transformed our approach to football—from our historical fixation on direct play to a more fluid total football style. And they said it couldn’t be done.”
GUARDIOLA WILL FACE ANOTHER EFL opponent this weekend when League One side Exeter City comes to the Etihad Stadium for the third round of the FA Cup (Saturday, 10 a.m. ET on ESPN+). Gary Caldwell, who has managed Exeter since 2022 and has experience in the EFL with Coventry City, Derby County, and Wigan Athletic, considers Guardiola one of the greats.
“More than just winning trophies, he’s transformed the game’s perception and has made an impact globally,” Caldwell shared with ESPN. “He has reshaped the understanding of positional play, player rotation during possession, and defensive formations out of possession. His influence extends to how coaches interpret the game and utilize their players.”
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In preparation for facing Guardiola’s team, Caldwell has had his work cut out for him this week. Following three consecutive Premier League draws while dealing with mounting injuries, City is likely to rotate their lineup, but that doesn’t simplify the challenge for Exeter.
“It’s incredibly challenging. I’ve learned that this week,” Caldwell said. “Our staff and analysts have been hard at work preparing, but City’s array of options and playing styles presents a daunting task. They are a possession-focused team, but their methods of obtaining and maintaining that possession—with various attacking threats—are diverse.”
“We aim to frame the game in a way that we’re familiar with, even if it will inevitably be unique for many of our players.”
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On Wednesday, Exeter’s squad focused on their defensive organization when City has possession, while Thursday was dedicated to developing strategies for their own potential scoring opportunities. Friday will be about reviewing essential tactics and solidifying their game plan. Although Exeter enters the Etihad as major underdogs, four wins and a draw in their last eight matches inspire a flicker of optimism for Caldwell and his team.
“As the season progresses, we’ve improved,” Caldwell noted. “We’re assessing the season in eight distinct phases, and the December phase, despite appearing tough on paper, was embraced well by the squad.
“We’re on a winning streak and in the best possible position heading into a matchup against one of the world’s elite teams. We will approach it with hope, optimism, and energy, eager to create a significant upset.”
Caldwell has previously been part of a cup surprise against City, playing for Wigan under Roberto Martinez when they stunned Roberto Mancini’s side in the 2013 final at Wembley. If history were to repeat itself, Guardiola would face defeat against an Exeter team he has influenced, albeit indirectly.
“I’ve consumed all the documentaries and read everything about his time at Barcelona and Bayern Munich,” Caldwell reflected. “However, the most crucial aspect of management is to have your own identity.
“I cannot replicate City’s style because I lack their elite player quality. I must bring my concepts, which are naturally influenced by the current elite managers.
“This match is a fantastic opportunity for me personally, to go up against one of the greatest managers in football history.”