Pep Guardiola's fiery gesture at Anfield, where he raised six fingers to signify Manchester City's six Premier League titles, continues to stir controversy in England. The incident has drawn comparisons to José Mourinho, a parallel that Guardiola did not seem to appreciate when questioned by the press.

A Gesture That Sparked Debate

During a press conference, Guardiola was asked if his provocative response to Liverpool fans at Anfield was a calculated move. Initially taken aback, he clarified:

"Yes, we’ve won six Premier Leagues," Pep stated bluntly, brushing off the suggestion of losing his composure.

When further probed on whether the gesture signaled a loss of calm, Guardiola responded candidly:

"I’ve never been calm. Do you know why I seemed calm before? Because we were winning. Winning makes people appear calm, poised, and kind. When you’re not winning, it’s the complete opposite."

The Mourinho Comparison

The conversation then shifted to comparisons with Mourinho’s famous three-finger salute during his Manchester United tenure, representing the three Premier League titles he won with Chelsea.

"Mourinho made a similar gesture when he arrived at Manchester United. Many believe that was the beginning of his decline. Do you see parallels?" asked the journalist.

Guardiola was quick to distinguish himself: "I hope that’s not the case for me. But in the end, we are similar in some ways. However, he won three Premier Leagues, and I’ve won six. So, it’s not quite the same, is it?"

Confidence or Controversy?

Guardiola's response highlights his competitive edge and determination to maintain Manchester City's dominance. While his gesture may have ruffled feathers, it underscores his pride in the team’s success under his leadership.

Whether it’s confidence or arrogance, one thing is clear: Guardiola is not afraid to defend his record, even if it invites comparisons to other legendary managers.