Roberto De Zerbi showered praise on “boss” Pep Guardiola as Albion prepared to face Manchester City, writes Anujit Vijayakumar.

The Seagulls head coach shared his appreciation for the treble-winning manager, who has been a person of influence in the Italian’s career.

De Zerbi said: “Pep is a boss. I would like to do something similar.

“He been working for many years.

“He won in Barcelona, Bayern Munich, in Manchester City, but the way in which he won is different from other coaches.

“I think the world will remember him not only for the victories, but for the way he won, as it was unique.

“I have big respect for Pep, not only as a coach, but because he helped during my first period of my time in England, and I appreciate that.

“I can’t forget his behaviour with me and for that, I have this respect.”

De Zerbi also reflected on a moment between the two during his time at Brescia.

He added: “He played in my town, for my club, Brescia.

“We have Edoardo Piovani, the team manager of Brescia, my big friend and his big friend, and because of that we have a lot in common.”