Guardiola reveals what Messi said when Busquets started training at Barca

Pep Guardiola has revealed that Lionel Messi told him 'I like this one' when Sergio Busquets started training with the first-team at Barcelona.

Busquets played in Barcelona's B team under Guardiola and when his boss stepped up to the senior side the midfielder followed shortly afterwards.

Messi was immediately impressed by Busquets and informed Guardiola of his opinion.

'I remember what Messi told me,' Guardiola told Universo Valdano.

'After two or three days of training with him, he came to me and said: 'I like this one.' And I said: 'When there is trouble, he will be there.'

'He does everything for those around him.'

Guardiola's decision to promote Busquets to the senior team was certainly an inspired one - with the Spain international remaining one of Barcelona's most important players.

Busquets has amassed over 300 appearances for Barcelona, while he was won a wide array of trophies including three Champions Leagues, seven La Liga titles and six Copa del Reys.

At the age of 30, Busquets could still have several years ahead of him at Barcelona - indeed his contract at the Nou Camp runs until the summer of 2023.

This season Busquets has made 41 appearances for Barcelona, who are ten points clear at the top of La Liga.

Guardiola, meanwhile, is looking to guide Manchester City to glory on four fronts, with his side having already won the Carabao Cup this campaign.