Leeds manager Marcelo Bielsa full of praise for Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola

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The relationship between Pep Guardiola and Marcelo Bielsa is a widely-renowned quantity that dates back from the matches between Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao. Now, the two face off for the second time in English football.

Bielsa’s Leeds, who have sparkled in their first season since returning to the top flight of English football, have won their last two league games and sit in a comfortable 11th place – while Guardiola’s City are top of the pile.

In their first duel this season, Leeds earned a point when Rodrigo scored from a corner. But this time around, it is likely to be a much more one-sided affair with City in excellent form – and boasting home advantage.

Ahead of the match, Bielsa spoke of his admiration of Guardiola – a manager that has labelled Bielsa as one of the best managers in the world. He told DAZN that he has given up in trying to mirror the Spaniard’s techniques.

“Interpreting the novel decisions that Guardiola incorporates into a game is already a way to fall in love with football. He is a magical man,” Bielsa told DAZN. “What he does, I find it enormously difficult to try. I have already given up.”

TBR’s view – Who comes out on top on Saturday?

The two go head to head in the lunchtime kick-off on Saturday and Leeds are up against it. Despite being in good form, they come up against the best side in England by quite some distance – away from home.

But there are a couple of signs that point to Leeds. One being that Leeds have had an extra few days rest, with City playing in the Champions League on Tuesday night against Dortmund. Another being the reverse fixture.

Leeds held City to a draw and while City are a different side to the struggling one earlier this season – they will face a tough test in facing the Whites. Jack Harrison’s forced absence, though, will be a blow for Leeds.