Barcelona right back Dani Alves has revealed how his former manager Pep Guardiola wanted to coach Brazil ahead of last year’s World Cup.
The revelation comes nearly a year to the day that Brazil were defeated 7-1 at the tournament in an unforgettable semi final match against Germany. The news may well anger supporters as Guardiola (seen as many as the best coach in the world) was rejected by the Brazilian FA.
“I may pay for saying this, but i like to reveal the truth. Before the World Cup, Pep wanted to train the Brazilian national team and he was rejected,” Alves told ESPN Brasil. “Pep said he wanted to make us world champions and he had a whole strategy in place.”
Guardiola has won a host of honours as a manager including numerous trophies during his time in charge of Alves at Barcelona. The 32 year old defender believes his former manager should have been accepted for the role.
“Pep is the best coach in the world. A guy who revolutionized football and a team. We had the chance to have the guy without having to spend a lot of money. His intention was only to achieve the expected result for the Brazilian people. You let an opportunity like this pass? You do not think in the best interests of the national team.”
