Monday, 21st January, 2013
Johan Cruyff has backed Pep Guardiola’s decision to return to football with Bayern Munich.
Guardiola has signed a three-year deal with the Bavarians to take over as the club’s coach from the summer; he will replace Jupp Heynckes at the Allianz Arena.
The former Barcelona boss, who is spending a year out of the game to recharge his batteries, was expected to make his return in England, with several Premier League sides interested in securing his services.
But Bayern Munuch won the race, and Guardiola is delighted they did.
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"Last week I was on holiday in Africa and I was called by Pep Guardiola", Cryuff wrote in his column for Dutch daily De Telegraaf.
"He wanted to tell me personally that he was Bayern Munich’s coach for next season. I found it very special that he called me, just like his choice.
"Pep was inundated with offers, but ultimately chose a pure football challenge.
"I said that I am proud and delighted with his decision."
Guardiola will be expected to challenge for the Champions League with Bayern Munich and also see off Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga.
He inherits a fine squad to meet that challenge though and will undoubtedly be backed in the transfer market by the Bavarians.
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