Bayern Munich midfielder Javi Martinez has praised the arrival of Pep Guardiola at the Allianz Arena, saying that he is an "excellent coach".

The former Barcelona coach will take over at the Allianz Arena next season as a successor to current coach Jupp Heynckes.

Martinez left Spain for Germany during the summer after a superb season with Athletic Bilbao, and the midfielder is delighted that his countryman will be joining the Bavarians.

"Guardiola is an excellent coach. I know him a little from when Bilbao played Barcelona. I rate him highly as a coach and a person," he told Bild.

"This is the best solution after Heynckes said he wanted to end his career this season. It's great for Bayern and great for the whole Bundesliga. Now maybe more top players and coaches may come from Spain to Munich and Germany."

Since the appointment, a host of players from his former club have been linked with a possible move, but Guardiola's father has already stated that Pep will not be raiding the Catalans.