Pep Guardiola is known not just for his tactical brilliance but also for placing immense trust in a core group of players. Over the years at Manchester City and Barcelona, some players have consistently featured in his lineups—across multiple competitions and crucial moments.
Here’s a ranking of the 15 most used players under Pep Guardiola, based on total appearances under his management.
13. Lionel Messi – 219 Games (Barcelona)
While this may seem low compared to others on the list, Lionel Messi’s 219 appearances under Pep at Barcelona came between 2008 and 2012—arguably the most dominant spell in modern football history. Pep reinvented Messi as a false nine, and the duo redefined attacking football.
12. Gabriel Jesus – 236 Games (Man City)
Versatile and tireless, Gabriel Jesus was a key attacking option for Guardiola between 2017 and 2022. Whether as a central striker or wide forward, he was often used for his pressing and off-ball intelligence.
11. Riyad Mahrez – 236 Games (Man City)
Signed from Leicester City, Mahrez offered Guardiola a silky left-footed option on the right wing. He delivered consistently in the Champions League and Premier League, with 236 total appearances under Pep before leaving for Al-Ahli in 2023.
10. Fernandinho – 244 Games (Man City)
The Brazilian midfielder was a rock at the base of Pep’s midfield. His positional awareness, tackling, and ability to read the game made him one of Guardiola’s most trusted lieutenants until his departure in 2022.
9. Rodri – 265 Games (Man City)
Rodri’s evolution into one of the world’s best holding midfielders happened under Pep. Since arriving in 2019, his control, intelligence, and clutch goals have made him indispensable in City’s midfield.
8. John Stones – 277 Games (Man City)
Initially inconsistent, Stones matured under Guardiola’s coaching. He became a hybrid defender-midfielder in Pep’s tactical system, peaking during City’s treble-winning 2022–23 campaign.
7. Raheem Sterling – 292 Games (Man City)
Sterling thrived under Guardiola, reaching new heights in goalscoring and decision-making. Across 292 games, he became one of City’s most dangerous wingers and a key contributor to multiple Premier League titles.
6. Phil Foden – 319 Games (Man City)
Foden, a product of City’s academy, has been nurtured by Pep since his teenage years. Now a regular starter, he’s featured in 319 games, excelling across midfield and forward positions.
5. Kyle Walker – 319 Games (Man City)
Walker has been a vital piece in Pep’s tactical setups—thanks to his pace, defensive solidity, and ability to adapt to inverted full-back roles. He’s also been a leader in the dressing room.
4. İlkay Gündoğan – 358 Games (Man City)
Guardiola’s first signing at City, Gündoğan was the heartbeat of City’s midfield. His intelligence, late runs into the box, and calmness in big games made him irreplaceable during his seven-year stint.
3. Ederson – 372 Games (Man City)
Guardiola revolutionized goalkeeping with Ederson. The Brazilian’s sweeping ability and exceptional passing range have allowed Pep’s teams to build from the back confidently for 372 matches and counting.
2. Kevin De Bruyne – 381 Games (Man City)
De Bruyne has been the creative engine of Guardiola’s team. With 381 appearances, his vision, passing, and leadership have been central to City’s success in England and Europe.
1. Bernardo Silva – 407 Games (Man City)
The most used player under Pep Guardiola, Bernardo Silva embodies everything Guardiola demands—versatility, work rate, intelligence, and consistency. Whether as a winger, midfielder, or false nine, he’s played 407 times under Pep, more than any other player.
