Manchester City’s summer signing Sverre Nypan has opened up about his first experiences training under Pep Guardiola, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes perspective on the standards demanded by the City boss.
The 18-year-old Norwegian midfielder completed a £12.5 million move from Rosenborg in July, becoming the most expensive export in his country’s history. Shortly after, City confirmed his loan switch to Middlesbrough for the 2025/26 campaign, where he is expected to continue his development with regular first-team football.
Early Impressions of Guardiola
Speaking to TV2, Nypan described the unique atmosphere of training with City’s first team before his loan move, praising Guardiola’s unmatched footballing knowledge.
“Just keep your mouth shut and let him explain what to do. You become a student when you talk to him,” Nypan explained.
“He has one of the best football minds you can meet in the world. He always has something to say. I’m looking forward to hopefully working with him more in the future.”
Learning from City’s Midfield
The teenager also reflected on learning from senior players, particularly Rodri, during his pre-season spell in Manchester.
“I had a training session with Rodri and some other players. They are very nice people. You think the worst and you might not think they will take the time for you, but they really do,” Nypan added.
City’s Loan Strategy
Nypan’s loan move to Middlesbrough comes as part of a wider City strategy this summer, with the club sanctioning a number of high-profile temporary exits. Jack Grealish (Everton), Manuel Akanji (Inter Milan), Claudio Echeverri (Bayer Leverkusen), and Vitor Reis (Girona) were among those to leave on loan.
Despite being sent out immediately, City remain committed to Nypan’s long-term development, having fought off competition from several top European clubs to secure his signature. His performances in training during pre-season are understood to have impressed Guardiola and his staff, underlining why the club views him as one of Europe’s brightest teenage talents.
FAQs
- Who is Sverre Nypan?
An 18-year-old Norwegian midfielder signed by Manchester City from Rosenborg for £12.5m in summer 2025.
- Where is Nypan playing this season?
He is on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough for the 2025/26 campaign.
- What did Nypan say about Pep Guardiola?
He described Guardiola as having one of the best football minds in the world and advised that players should “keep your mouth shut and listen” to him.
- Who has Nypan trained with at City?
He highlighted training alongside Rodri and other first-team stars during pre-season.
- What is City’s plan for Nypan?
To develop him through regular football at Middlesbrough before phasing him into the first-team setup in coming seasons.
Conclusion
Sverre Nypan’s reflections offer a glimpse into the standards and expectations set by Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. While his immediate future lies at Middlesbrough, the Norwegian teenager has already absorbed valuable lessons from training alongside elite players and under Guardiola’s guidance. For City, the £12.5m investment looks like a long-term bet on one of Europe’s most promising midfielders.
