PEP GUARDIOLA would swap half of his incredible trophy haul for a decent golf swing.
The Manchester City boss switches off from the pressures of the title race by going to the course and hitting a few balls.
But the fact his handicap is going UP rather than down is a huge source of frustration.
Asked how he relaxes away from the game, Pep said: “Playing golf — the only thing I switch off completely.
“I don't see people, it's just hitting this damn ball — and you cannot hit it.
“I would change half of what I've achieved as a manager or player to have a decent golf swing. I'd do anything.”
That is some claim as he is already one of the most successful managers of all-time.
He has won nine domestic league titles across three different countries, two European Cups and 20 other trophies — including four consecutive EFL Cups with City.
As a player for boyhood club Barcelona, he also lifted five LaLiga titles and the European Cup.
Spanish golf legend Jose Maria Olazabal — a two-time Masters winner — is on record saying Guardiola's game is pretty decent.
But Pep said: “Olazabal is too nice, my swing is a disaster.
“My handicap is getting worse.
“I don't have time and the weather is so bad.
The 51-year-old certainly won't have time to hit the course this week as he prepares for Sunday's Manchester derby at the Etihad.
He knows victory over neighbours United will go a fair way towards helping City to yet another Premier League title.
United's legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson famously used to enjoy a glass of red wine with the opposing manager following a match.
When asked what his favourite part of the job is, Pep said: “The glass of wine when you win the game.
“And the toughest? You don't sleep good after a defeat.”
During his 5½ years in England, the City boss has often been complimented on his fashion sense.
But he admits that is all down to his missus Cristina, who runs a boutique back in Barcelona.
Cristina chose the 'coat-igan' he wore as his team swept to a domestic treble back in 2018-19, before auctioning it off to raise cash for the club's charities.
Guardiola added: “My wife is so elegant, she helps me a lot. Absoutely she chooses.
“Before her I was a disaster. Now I'm elegant — thank God for her.
“All good things in my life are created by others, sometimes from my wife, sometimes from the money I have at clubs.”
Having booked a place in the FA Cup quarter-final thanks to Tuesday's 2-0 win over Peterborough, Pep's thoughts will have immediately switched to the derby.
He has a squad packed full of quality players, who would play every week for most teams in the Prem — but not the reigning champs.
SUNSPORT GOLF XI
Par Mertesacker
Ray Houghton 36 and In in 38
Ian double Bogie
Hole in Juan Mata
Chris Eagles
Leandro AlbaTrossard
Eden Water Hazard
Chris Three Wood
Emannuel Caddy-bayor
Guardiola also believes keeping on board the stars he leaves out — or asks to sit on the bench — is key to what he has achieved at the Etihad.
He told Sky Sports: “If you are able to have the group as a unit and handle the guys who don't play, you will be happy.
“If there is turmoil in the locker room or a mess, you'll be unhappy and no success.”