Pep Guardiola didn’t hesitate when naming the best player between Gerrard, Scholes and Lampard

Former Barcelona captain and legendary manager Pep Guardiola once gave his verdict on the age-old Frank Lampard vs Steven Gerrard vs Paul Scholes debate. All three midfielders were regarded as among the finest of their generation, each leaving their mark on the Premier League in different ways.

Their contrasting qualities and influence on games fueled endless arguments over who stood above the rest.

Lampard was backed for his incredible goal return from midfield, Scholes for his ability to dictate the tempo of matches, and Gerrard for his drive, leadership, and impact across the pitch.

But Guardiola, who himself had been an elite midfielder before turning to management, had no doubt about his answer.

Speaking to Rio Ferdinand back in 2022, Guardiola paid his respects to all three midfielders but did reveal that it was the one who starred on the other side of Manchester that was ultimately his favourite.
All respect to Frank [Lampard], to Steven [Gerrard] but Paul Scholes is my favourite one. I love it. I think he had everything but the other two, come on, Frank and Steven Gerrard changed this… Paul Scholes is my favourite.”

Guardiola’s admiration for Scholes is not one that has simply come to fruition in recent years either, as he maintained the Englishman’s brilliance prior to coming up against him in the Champions League final in 2011.

When asked if there was one Red Devil he wished he could snap up for his legendary Los Cules side, Guardiola didn’t hesitate in selecting an aging Scholes who was approaching his first of two retirements.

“Out of everyone at Manchester United, I would pick out Scholes – he is the best midfielder of his generation. I would have loved to have played alongside him.

“Scholes and Giggs are still great players; they are a point of reference in their team.”