Pep Guardiola expects Barcelona to recover in 'a year or two'

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has backed Barcelona to find their way back to the top of the mountain in 'a year or two'.

Financial issues have limited Barcelona's progress on and off the field in recent years but they made a positive step last season as new manager Xavi led Barcelona to second in the La Liga standings, but still a huge 13 points behind winners Real Madrid.

Guardiola, who admitted Xavi has done a 'good job' in his short time at Camp Nou, urged fans to remain patient as Barça continue their rebuild and predicted a positive outcome in the near future.

"It's always tough when you can't do big things but you have to be calm," Guardiola said. "There are moments in history when you have to accept that the situation is what it is. Sometimes, assuming a lower profile can help you to grow faster.

"The economic situation is what it is. I'm not talking about the quality of the coaches, managers or players. The perception I have is that they are all good, but sometimes, you just have to be calm. It will take a year or two and it won't be easy without being able to make great signings.

"Now the situation is what it is, they have to accept who they are and just try to win the next game and the next. But you have to accept that the situation is what it is.

"It's not what you want and it'll hurt, but success will end up coming."

Guardiola went on to admit that the future is clearly bright for Barcelona because of all the young stars in the squad.

"[Gavi] is fantastic, just like Ansu [Fati] or Pedri," he continued.

"They show that there is a bright future and some really good work in La Masia."


Source : 90min