'It really opened my eyes' - former Man City defender makes Pep Guardiola admission

Former Manchester City defender Eliaquim Mangala claims Pep Guardiola is the reason why he would consider management once his playing days are over. Despite only making nine Premier League appearances under the Spaniard, Mangala - who joined City in 2014 - holds him in high regard.

The 31-year-old was signed by Manuel Pellegrini for £42million but a string of poor performances saw him fall down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium. Once Guardiola arrived, he was loaned out to Valencia and was only used sparingly upon his return.

A second loan stint at Everton ended in disaster after just two games as a knee injury ruled Mangala out for the remainder of the season. Another year on the sidelines at City would see the Frenchman released from his contract in 2019.

Although Mangala never realised his potential at the club, he still values Guardiola’s qualities as a manager and regards him as an inspiration for his own managerial aspirations.

“After playing under him (Pep), I had more desire to become a manager,” Mangala told Get French Football News. “It isn't necessarily his playing style, because that can change, but his approach. Why do we play like that? It’s everything. The way I received it really opened my eyes.”

As it stands, Mangala is still without a club after being released by Saint-Etienne in the summer. Once signed as the most expensive defender in British history, the veteran opened up about the hefty price tag at City while insisting he still wishes to play on.

“Everyone handles it (the price tag) differently,” Mangala added. “Long before going to Manchester City, I quickly learned that there were multiple aspects to the game.

"There is this subconscious side that has its influence. I tried to balance that influence by telling myself to concentrate on what I had to do. My plan is to find a club and to find a club as quickly as possible. It's my passion, and I'm motivated to give a lot more on the pitch. Football is where I enjoy myself.”