Pep Guardiola (foto: Getty Images)
Pep Guardiola has revealed his favourite among England’s legendary midfield trio, explaining why Paul Scholes stood above Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in his eyes.
Pep Guardiola has stepped into one of English football’s most enduring debates: who was the greatest midfielder of a generation — Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes or Frank Lampard?
The Manchester City manager was asked the question during an interview with former England defender Rio Ferdinand, and his answer was clear.
“Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard or Paul Scholes? With all due respect to Lampard and Gerrard, my favourite was Paul Scholes. I loved him. He had absolutely everything,” Guardiola said.
“Frank and Steven were incredible and had a huge impact on football, but I would choose Scholes.”
A choice that surprises few
Guardiola’s admiration for Scholes will not shock those familiar with his football philosophy. The former Barcelona coach has long favoured midfielders defined by intelligence, tempo control and technical purity — qualities Scholes embodied throughout his career.
The Manchester United legend was widely respected beyond England, particularly in Catalonia. Xavi has previously described Scholes as a reference point for Barcelona midfielders and once admitted he did not consider himself the greatest of all time, instead pointing to Scholes as the benchmark.
A career of consistency
Scholes retired in 2013 after spending his entire professional career at Manchester United. He made 716 appearances across all competitions, winning numerous domestic and European trophies and earning a reputation as one of the most complete midfielders of his era.
While the Gerrard–Lampard–Scholes debate is unlikely ever to be settled, Guardiola’s verdict adds another authoritative voice to the argument — and once again underlines the enduring influence of Paul Scholes on the game.