With De Zerbi's Brighton arriving at the Etihad today in the Premier League, attention has turned back to Guardiola's previous praise of the Italian. Last season he described De Zerbi as one of the most influential managers of the last 20 years.
Ahead of today's clash, Guardiola again heaped praise on De Zerbi's 'unique' approach at the Amex Stadium and said the fixture will be one of the most difficult his side will face all season.
With reports suggesting that Guardiola has told his players that De Zerbi could be a future Blues boss, he was asked whether he would have any input in choosing his successor.
"It's none of my business," he said after denying his private comments on De Zerbi's future chances of becoming City boss.
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