Guardiola: Too early to predict title race

Former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola said it is too early to draw comparisons on the Liga title race after only one round.

The 41-year-old, who guided the Catalan club to a magnificent haul of 14 trophies in four seasons as manager, believes that it will take at least 10 matches before any judgement can be drawn.

That is despite the fact that Barcelona are already two points ahead of Real Madrid in La Liga after Jose Mourinho’s side failed to overcome Valencia at the Santiago Bernabeu, drawing 1-1 on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters in the New York, Guardiola said: “We have to wait at least 10 games before drawing any conclusions. Both Barca and Madrid have great squads.”

Guardiola is currently living in the USA after leaving Barcelona at the end of last season, with his assistant Tito Vilanova taking over the reins.

But Guardiola remains keen to follow the game and hinted that his return would be a short one.

He added: “I’m still watching the games. Once a coach, always a coach.”

“This year, I hope to learn more about the American way of life. I hope to also improve my English and also that of my children. This is what I will be doing this year.”