Pep Guardiola didn’t hesitate when answering the classic Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard or Paul Scholes debate

If you grew up watching the Premier League, the chances are that at some point you’ve debated who was the better player out of Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard and Paul Scholes.

The three greatest English midfielders of their generation hold legendary status at their former clubs, but could never quite make it work when playing together when playing for the national side.

Scholes was a key member of United’s legendary Class of ’92 cohort, going on to win 11 Premier League titles – more than any other English player – and the Champions League twice under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson.

Lampard began his professional career with West Ham but made his name at London rivals Chelsea, winning three Premier League titles and the club’s first ever European Cup – scoring 211 goals in the process.

Gerrard, meanwhile, is viewed by some as Liverpool’s greatest ever player despite winning relatively little silverware compared to his two compatriots. While he never won the Premier League title, he inspired the Reds to a famous Champions League triumph in 2005 and is fourth on the club’s all-time top scorers list with 186 goals.

Back in 2022, City manager Guardiola was asked to finally settle the debate over who out of Lampard, Gerrard and Scholes was the greatest player.

Speaking to former United defender Rio Ferdinand on his podcast, Guardiola said: “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.”

Gerrard (left), Lampard (second from left) and Scholes (right) during their England days (Image: Getty)

Gerrard (left), Lampard (second from left) and Scholes (right) during their England days (Image: Getty)

Guardiola’s admiration for Scholes is perhaps no surprise, given the former United midfielder’s style of play is the most natural fit with the Catalan’s brand of football, out of the three.

Scholes has also spoken highly of the former Bayern Munich and Barcelona manager, previously tipping him to become England manager in the future.

Speaking to Spanish publication Marca in 2017, Scholes said: “I hope he becomes England coach one day and bring us his style.”