Pep Guardiola has said he would not be at Manchester City if it wasn't for director of football Txiki Begiristain.
Guardiola spent four years with Begiristain at Barcelona before linking up with his compatriot at City five years ago.
Asked about the relationship ahead of Wednesday's Champions League tie with PSG, Guardiola said: "You cannot imagine. One of the reason why I extend my time here was because of him.
"We met when I was 19 and we've been close friends. We work together well. We analyse why when we win or lose and don't judge the other one.
"I've been judged on results but we both work for the best of this club. He's the most humble person, always behind the scenes, never in the media. I think of him so highly, he's exceptional - what he did in Barcelona and what he did here.
"He trusted me and my gratitude is eternal. Without him I would not be here. He showed me who he is in the bad moments. City are incredibly lucky to have him supporting the academy and many things behind the scenes.
"It's the ideal situation when the sporting director trusts the manager. We know if we don't win we'll both be sacked but until then he supports the manager in everything.
"The players and the people know there is no bad influence and this is so important."
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