The Spaniard's Manchester City side face Conte's Napoli in their opening Champions League game on Thursday (18.09.25) night and he "always enjoys" pitting his wits against the Italian - who has previously coached in the Premier League with both Chelsea and Tottenham.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Guardiola said: "I always enjoy. I've been with Jurgen (Klopp) much more, with Jose Mourinho in the early ages a lot.

"With Antonio as well, of course, with Chelsea, Tottenham.

"I learn a lot with big, big, big managers. I enjoy it a lot, and Antonio is not an exception."

Guardiola accepts that City will face a "tough" test against Napoli - who won the Serie A title last term in Conte's debut campaign as manager.

He said: "His teams always have been there. Antonio - always his teams are so recognised, so good.

"Of course, Napoli's so tough, but (so) will be the next one. In this format, I see all the teams, and everyone is tricky."

The match will see City legend Kevin De Bruyne make his return to the Etihad Stadium for the first time since leaving at the end of last season and Guardiola has warned his team to be aware of the threat that the Belgian playmaker poses.

The manager said: "I remember we talked about that: 'I'm pretty sure if you go to Napoli, we're going to face (you).' But I didn't expect the first game to be honest.

"The impact has been quick immediately. So in the final third, he's just an unstoppable player. You have to be careful."

Guardiola added: "I'm looking forward to seeing him after the game and we can talk a little bit."