‘Working with Pep is incredible’ — Toure full of praise for Man City boss

Manchester City first-team coach Kolo Toure has heaped praise on Pep Guardiola, expressing amazement at the manager’s relentless energy and passion despite more than a decade at the top of English football.

The former City defender says working under Guardiola has been both empowering and inspiring.

Speaking ahead of City’s trip to Crystal Palace, Toure revealed his surprise at Guardiola’s intensity and enthusiasm on a daily basis.

“I'm so surprised with all the years that he's done in the league and now the energy that he still has every day,” he said, highlighting the passion the Spaniard brings to meetings and training sessions.

According to Toure, that energy is reflected on the pitch, where City continue to show aggression, unity and a strong fighting spirit in tight moments.

With Guardiola entering the final 18 months of his contract and chasing another Premier League title, Toure believes the manager’s mentality has helped City maintain their competitive edge, especially in physical battles and second balls where he feels the team has improved from last season.

Toure also opened up on his own role within Guardiola’s backroom staff, describing the experience as liberating. “Working with Pep is incredible,” he said. “The first thing he told me when I came was, ‘just be you’.”

The former Arsenal and City title winner explained that Guardiola encourages coaches to express themselves and play to their strengths.

Toure now focuses on individual mentoring, video analysis and on-pitch guidance, working closely with players like Erling Haaland by using his experience as a former defender.

He also collaborates with assistant coach Pep Lijnders, bringing energy and personal insight as he continues to develop his coaching career.