Pep Guardiola’s future beyond the 2024/25 season remains uncertain, and speculation is growing that the Manchester City icon could be in line to become the next England manager. But is the legendary City boss the right fit for the Three Lions?
Following Gareth Southgate’s departure after England’s heartbreaking loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, the national team is without a permanent manager. Lee Carsley has stepped in as interim, but he has expressed uncertainty about taking the role long-term.
Several high-profile names have been floated as potential successors, including former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel and, surprisingly, Guardiola himself. With Guardiola’s contract at Manchester City set to expire this summer and talks of an extension currently on hold, the Catalan coach has yet to decide his next move.
“Let’s see on my future,” Guardiola shared on Italian TV show Che Tempo Che Fa. “I still need to reflect and decide what I want to do.”
City will no doubt be eager to keep their iconic manager, who has revolutionized both English and European football during his tenure. Since his arrival in 2016, Guardiola has led City to an unprecedented four consecutive Premier League titles and a historic treble.
Given his unparalleled success, even Manchester United legend Roy Keane has suggested that the FA should seriously consider going after Guardiola if his future remains in doubt at the end of the season.
Speaking on ITV, Keane said, “It is [a small pool to find Southgate’s replacement] but the most important thing is to get the right man. [Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Eddie Howe] they’ve all got a chance. The FA has to go after the right guy, whoever that is. Whether finances play a part in it, if Lee [Carsley] rules himself out… then the FA has to get busy and find the right man. Go for Pep. Go for the best. Pep’s contract is up in the summer.”
This raises several questions: What does the future hold for Guardiola at City? How long will he remain at the Etihad, and if he takes on the England job, could he finally bring silverware back to the Three Lions? If the FA can lure him in, Guardiola could be the game-changer England needs to end their decades-long trophy drought.
