When Pep Guardiola, then 37, took over as Barcelona's first-team manager in 2008, few anticipated the remarkable success that followed, culminating in a treble-winning first season. Andres Iniesta, a key player under Guardiola, expressed confidence in him from day one, stating that Guardiola's vision and preparation set the foundation for immediate success. Iniesta highlighted the motivation felt within the team and the clarity Guardiola provided, enabling players to embody his tactical plans effectively. This era marked the rise of Guardiola as one of football's legendary coaches, reflected in the numerous trophies achieved during his tenure.
In 2008, Guardiola became manager, Iniesta exclusively tells FourFourTwo. From the very beginning, I had a feeling it was going to be a complete success. Personally, it was incredible to know that Guardiola was going to take charge of the team. Internally, I felt an immense sense of commitment and conviction, an indescribable motivation.
It was a great opportunity, and we realised it quickly. Pep was more than ready, and he conveyed that to the group during the first pre-season we had in Scotland. It was the conviction he had when explaining how he wanted us to play.
Anyone who's had the chance to work alongside one of their idols will understand. Guardiola conveyed that he had everything planned out from the defence, the positioning of the midfielders, to what the forwards had to do.
Guardiola won the treble in his first season as Barca boss; it was incredible to witness the team's execution of his vision after just a few training sessions.
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