Mascherano hails Guardiola influence

Javier Mascherano says he owes a debt of gratitude to Pep Guardiola, and wants the coach to remain at Barcelona.

Argentina international Mascherano earned a reputation as one of the most effective defensive midfielders in Europe during his time at Liverpool, but he has regularly been utilised as a centre-back since moving to Barca in August 2010.

Mascherano feels he can develop further as a player under Guardiola’s guidance, and is hoping the 41-year-old, who is out of contract at the end of the season, will commit his future to the club.

“Guardiola is very important to me,” Mascherano said.

“He is the coach who trusted me to come to Barcelona and also provided me with the necessary conditions to be able to change my position.”

“Without the help of the coach, that would have been impossible. I owe it to him that I am now playing in the centre of defence.”

Mascherano also echoed the comments of Xavi Hernandez, who this week said the Barca players do not want to even consider the possibility Guardiola will leave.

“No club would be prepared for that,” Mascherano said.

“Nobody is ready (for it) because he has the support of the entire club, not only because of all the titles he has won, but the way in which he has done it.”

“We hope he stays. He has earned (the right to stay) with hard work and with a group that supports his ideas.”

Guardiola, who spent 11 seasons with Barca as a player, has lifted 13 trophies since taking charge of the club in 2008.