The former Barca manager was speaking at the inauguration of a new Cruyff Court at La Salle Manresa, the school he attended before joining La Masia. During the event, Guardiola reflected on Barcelona's recent progress and addressed transfer speculation involving former City star Bernardo Silva.

Flick has enjoyed an impressive spell at Camp Nou, leading Barcelona to back-to-back La Liga titles while earning plaudits for the team's entertaining style of play. Although the club is still chasing its first Champions League crown since 2015, Guardiola believes the foundations being built are more important than a single European trophy.

"I'm a big fan of Hansi, of how they do things and how they play," Guardiola said. "They've had two extraordinary years. Beyond the results, they've done things very well and it's very attractive to watch them play."

While Barcelona's European shortcomings continue to attract scrutiny, Guardiola insisted knockout football is often influenced by factors beyond a team's control.

"The Champions League destroys projects," he warned. "I hope that is not the case here and that not winning it doesn't make people think everything else is wrong.

"La Liga is what gives you consistency. In the Champions League, you need to arrive at the right moment, without injuries, and there are many factors involved."

The Spaniard stressed that Barcelona should remain focused on their long-term development rather than allowing disappointment in Europe to overshadow their achievements.

"The important thing is that the day-to-day work is good, that the team continues to improve and that people don't think a season is bad just because you don't reach the Champions League final or win it," he added.

"What lays the foundation for a successful season are league titles."

Guardiola also weighed in on reports linking Bernardo Silva with Barcelona, offering a glowing assessment of the Portuguese midfielder he coached for nine seasons at Manchester City.

"Bernardo would adapt to any team," he said. "He's just too good."

He was equally complimentary about Julian Alvarez, another player who has been linked with the Catalan giants.

"He's also very good. City have had a lot of good players," Guardiola said.

As for his own future following the end of his trophy-laden decade at Manchester City, Guardiola admitted he is still undecided about his next move.

"Now I want to settle here for a while and then we'll see what happens," he said. "I don't even know myself."

Brighton and Hove Albion snatch Nigerian teen Zadok Yohanna