Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder reacts to comparisons with Pep Guardiola ahead of Blades' clash with Manchester City

Both men have been very successful in their managerial careers
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Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder has played down comparisons with Pep Guardiola ahead of his Blades' clash with Manchester City tonight.

Both men have enjoyed much success in their managerial careers, albeit at different levels.

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Guardiola has won trophies galore since beginning his managerial career at Barcelona B, while Wilder has also enjoyed trophy-laden spells at clubs including Alfreton Town, Northampton Town and the Blades.

Sheffield United's Chris Wilder with his Manchester City counterpart Pep Guardiola. Photo: Simon Bellis/SportimageSheffield United's Chris Wilder with his Manchester City counterpart Pep Guardiola. Photo: Simon Bellis/Sportimage
Sheffield United's Chris Wilder with his Manchester City counterpart Pep Guardiola. Photo: Simon Bellis/Sportimage

Both are now Premier League managers, but Wilder smiled when a reporter drew comparisons between the two at his pre-match press conference ahead of the City game yesterday.

“I don’t think you can compare my career to someone who’s won Champions League and everything else,” Wilder said.

“We’re a million miles apart. I’ve done what I can do to affect my career, and Pep’s had an incredible career.

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“City won 198 points in two seasons and the manager puts huge demands on their players every day, in any game in any competition.

“They want to win all the time and you don’t get his career and results he has as a player and a manager without being driven day to day.

“The big vibe out of City is that the manager is at it every day, and the staff are the same. You can’t control things like injuries but the things you can control, he can and will do. And to great effect.”

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