“He had everything” – Pep Guardiola names favourite out of Scholes, Lampard and Gerrard

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has picked Manchester United legend Paul Scholes as his favourite midfielder ahead of Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.

The Manchester City manager is regarded as one of the best coaches in world football, having worked with and developed with the likes of Lionel Messi, Xavi and Andres Iniesta. The latter two are classed as two of the best midfielders to have played the game, but England has also created some world-class talents.

Paul Scholes graduated from Manchester United’s academy to become one of the most successful players in Premier League history. From the FA Youth Cup with the Class of ‘92 to 11 league titles, three FA Cups and two Champions Leagues – amongst other silverware.

Frank Lampard spent 13 years at Chelsea before moving to Manchester City and then finishing his career at New York City FC. Throughout his time at Stamford Bridge, where he became a club icon and legend, he lifted three Premier Leagues, four FA Cups, a Champions League and a Europa League, as well as other trophies.

Steven Gerrard was a Merseyside-born Liverpool player who stayed at his boyhood team from 1989 to 2015. In that time, he won two FA Cups, a Champions League, three League Cups, a Super Cup and UEFA Cup. Despite his long career in the top division of English football, he never lifted a league title.

The Blues boss was quizzed about his verdict on the famous debate. While the trio all shone for United, Liverpool and Chelsea respectively, they never quite enjoyed the same success on the international stage with England.

All three players tend to receive the backing of their respective club’s supporters, but it is the view of players and managers that people tend to pay the most attention to.

Former Reds defender Ferdinand asked Guardiola for his verdict on the debate and his response will please United fans.

Speaking to Ferdinand on Vibe with Five, Guardiola said: “All respect to Frank [Lampard], to Steven [Gerrard] but Paul Scholes is my favourite one. I love it. I think he had everything but the other two, come on, Frank and Steven Gerrard changed this. Paul Scholes is my favourite.”

The Spaniard himself has made a significant impact on the Premier League since being appointed City manager in 2016, winning a remarkable four league titles already.