Guardiola was undoubtedly heavily influenced in his tactical philosophy by Johan Cruyff – whom he served under during his playing days.
As a player, Guardiola’s talent lay in the mental side of the game – he did not have an imposing frame or tremendous speed. What he did possess however, was a deep understanding for the tactical side of the game, impressive spacial awareness, and, outstanding passing vision.
Guardiola lined up as a midfield pivot in Cruyff’s side. He perfectly suited Cruyff’s tactical visions for the game.
Indeed, many of the main tactical ideas seen within Cruyff’s ideology also emerge within Guardiola’s: an obsession with maintaining possession, counter-pressing, ‘sweeper’ keepers, and attacking fluidity.