With Maurizio Sarri being tipped to join Chelsea, Pep Guardiola has praised the former Napoli boss.

Manchester City coach Guardiola would love to see Sarri in the Premier League, as the Italian continues to be linked with Chelsea.

Sarri was replaced by Carlo Ancelotti at Serie A runners-up Napoli last week.

The 59-year-old ― who left Empoli for Napoli in 2015 ― is reportedly set to replace countryman Antonio Conte, who is widely expected to depart.

Guardiola knows the former Napoli coach’s methods well after City and Napoli went head-to-head in the Champions League group stage last season – with the English side prevailing in two entertaining encounters.

Asked about Sarri possibly joining Chelsea, Guardiola told Tuttosport: ‘I would love to see Sarri in the Premier League.

‘He did well with Empoli and, above all, Napoli.

‘His teams are a real joy to watch.’

The Italian guided Napoli to their second runners-up finish in three seasons, having threatened to dethrone champions Juventus, who ultimately topped the standings by four points.

As for Guardiola and champions City, they enjoyed a record-breaking campaign in the Premier League.