But things started to change when the side finally went up to Spain's second tier back in 2008 following back-to-back promotions. Michel has a bit of Pep Guardiola about him although he is a long way from being a footballing innovator or visionary. Even though he has regular contact with Pep Guardiola, he appreciates where he is now and where he has come from. One of the first things he did when he arrived in Girona was start taking lessons in Catalan. "If he received an offer from Bayern and had a contract with Girona, I would take him by car to Munich myself!

Source: BBC January 13, 2024 10:28 UTC