Man City news: Xavi tips Guardiola to create NEW Barcelona at Etihad

Xavi enjoyed a glittering career at Barca, winning two Champions League crowns and three La Liga titles playing under Guardiola, as well as host of other trophies as the Catalan club ruled the world.

City broke Premier League records last season by winning the title with 100 points and by a 19-

point margin.

They lead the table by two points from Liverpool as they head to West Ham on Saturday and Xavi said: “Pep will only improve Manchester City.

“He’s always looking to improve, always looking to better the team.

“The next target will be the Champions League and under him I think they will do it. He built something at Barcelona that will always be remembered in football history – he can do the same in Manchester.”

Despite a third place finish in his debut campaign at City and a trophy-less season for the first time in his managerial career, Guardiola refused to compromise his coaching principles and philosophy.

He persisted with his evolution of City’s style and was vindicated with last season’s title triumph, which was achieved with his side playing arguably the best football the English game has seen.

“In football it’s not just what you achieve but how you achieve it,” said Xavi.

“Manchester City are playing great football and I can guarantee that the players will be enjoying training sessions as well as the games.”

Guardiola has been formally warned by the FA over the comments he made about referee Anthony Taylor ahead of the Manchester derby after going against FA rules by discussing the suitability of the appointment of the Cheshire official, who is from Wythenshawe, for the clash.

Although Guardiola backed Taylor and dismissed accusations of potential bias, managers are not permitted to talk about referees ahead of matches.

Xavi has spent the last three years at Qatari side Al Sadd.

During his time in Qatar, the midfield legend has made 74 appearances, scoring 20 goals. He signed a two-year contract extension in May of this year, squashing rumours that he would retire.

However, he has indicated that he wants to take after Guardiola when he finishes playing and go into coaching.

In April, the Spanish legend began his coaching courses for his UEFA A and B licenses.