Bayern Munich vs Hannover 96 preview - Joselu risks Guardiola backlash

Hannover forward Joselu has not necessarily done his team any favours ahead of their trip to Bayern Munich by saying he prefers Jose Mourinho to Bayern coach Pep Guardiola.

Guardiola is unlikely to need any more motivation than he already has to prepare his side for their last game for a fortnight, and the last of an intense period of seven games in 21 days, but he has received some from the Hannover forward who says his rival is a better coach.

"I am sure that many Spanish players are here because of him, but for me Jose Mourinho is the best," Joselu told Sport Bild magazine.

"He may come across as being arrogant in front of the cameras, but within the team environment, he's a fantastic guy.

"He was great for me as a young player. Every player says good things about Mourinho."

Joselu played under the Chelsea manager at Real Madrid before his move to Eintracht Frankfurt, a transfer he never regrets.

"The Bundesliga is the best league in the world and that is why so many Spanish players want to be here," added the 24-year-old.

Bayern have proven themselves to be the best team in the Bundesliga in recent years, and a thorn in Hannover's side.

The Bavarians have lost only one of 25 previous encounters with the Reds in Munich, winning 22, including the last seven since that solitary defeat back in 2006.

With that record, and in view of a start to the season which has seen Bayern pick up four wins and two draws to lead the way, four points ahead of their opponents, Guardiola could well rotate his side again this weekend.

A midweek win in Moscow and the length of that trip may have resulted in a few more tired legs, while Guardiola can also count on Jerome Boateng, who was suspended in Europe.

Xabi Alonso may not get a break, though, with Guardiola saying after a 2-0 win over Cologne last weekend that his side "can only win" with the Spaniard.