Thomas Tuchel praises Guardioala ahead of FA cup clash

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said that his Manchester City partner Pep Guardiola had formed his winning methodology as the two men face each other in Saturday’s FA Cup semi-final.

Tuchel’s and Guardiola’s ways crossed in the Bundesliga when the German was responsible for Mainz and afterward Borussia Dortmund, while Spaniard Guardiola was looking after  Bayern Munich.

“He was a huge influence because when he was coach of Barcelona I was watching almost every game,” said Tuchel.

Tuchel, who assumed responsibility for Chelsea in January and is searching for his first success over Guardiola, told a news gathering on Friday.

Tuchel recognized the difference in quality between the different sides as of now, yet said his group would chase down City next season.

“We have to accept there is a gap between us,” Tuchel said. “If you look at the fixtures in the last few years we have to accept it, but without making us feel small.

“From day one next season we will hunt them and try to close the gap. In Europe, two teams are the benchmark: Manchester City and Bayern Munich.”