FC Barcelona is among the few clubs in world football that offers a managerial challenge unlike any other. The sheer pressure and obsession with winning that is present in Barcelona is seldom found anywhere else. Moreover, beyond just winning, Barça is expected to do so in a particularly dominant fashion.
As such, many coaches have come and gone over the years. Many have left their immortal mark, while others have succumbed to the demands and left empty-handed. For now, Xavi Hernandez continues to showcase his own unique brand of football. However, there is one name that seems to be gaining attention from the world over.
Coaching the elite
Roberto De Zerbi, aged 44, is the current head coach of Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion. The Italian manager has managed to transform his current side into one of England’s most exciting and dynamic teams.
While he continues to imprint his own unique blend of possession-based football into English history, many believe that he is destined for even greater things.
Among those who think so, as per SPORT, is Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Georgiy Sudakov. The 21-year-old Ukrainian star previously played under De Zerbi at Shakhtar during the 2021/22 season. According to him, the Italian coach is capable enough of even managing a side like Manchester City:
“I am completely sure that Roberto De Zerbi will manage one of the giants of football in the future, and I think Manchester City is one of them.”
However, given the similarities between Guardiola’s tactics at Manchester City and their stylistic resemblances to the style of Barcelona, that idea was brought up as well. To the player himself, it seems like just as good a fit:
“I think De Zerbi can coach any team in the world, so it doesn’t matter if it’s Manchester City or Barcelona.”
Praise from Guardiola
Interestingly, according to ‘The Telegraph’, even current Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledged him as a potential successor:
“That’s the next Man City manager.”
Focus on the now
For now, the Italian coach remains committed to the objectives of Brighton. Their upcoming clash in the Europa League sees them take on Dutch giants Ajax.
Another reason for Barcelona fans to remain aware of Brighton is the fact that Ansu Fati also currently plays there on loan. The youngster has the faith of his teammates to come back stronger, and thus far has made a solid impression with the English side.
