With whispers of Pep Guardiola leaving Manchester City in the near future, the master tactician has already expressed his desire to test himself on the World Cup stage, with the 2026 tournament presenting a prime opportunity.
The 2026 World Cup could mark Guardiola’s debut on the international scene, a challenge he’s eager to embrace. Currently in the final year of his contract at Manchester City, the six-time Premier League champion has conquered England, Spain, Germany, and Europe, yet he still dreams of managing a national team.
In May, the Daily Mail reported that the upcoming campaign would be Guardiola’s last at City, with his contract set to expire in 2025. This timeline perfectly aligns with the 2026 World Cup, offering Guardiola a year to integrate with a national team before the tournament kicks off across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Speaking to ESPN Brasil in February about his career ambitions, Guardiola said: “A national team. I would like to train a national team for a World Cup or a European Championship. I would like that.” When asked which team he might manage, the Catalan coach added: “I don’t know who would want me! To work for a national team they have to want you, just like a club.”
One potential path could see Guardiola remain in England to take charge of the national team after Gareth Southgate’s departure. Southgate initially stepped in as a temporary replacement for Sam Allardyce, who resigned following an undercover investigation into third-party ownership.
The Football Association might consider another short-term solution if it means securing one of football’s greatest minds. Although this would leave England in a transitional phase for a year or so, the payoff could be immense if Guardiola agreed to extend his stay beyond 2026.
While Guardiola might naturally lean towards coaching his native Spain, Luis de la Fuente’s recent Euro 2024 victory makes that move unlikely. Additionally, other top European teams like France, Germany, and Portugal are settled with Didier Deschamps, Julian Nagelsmann, and Roberto Martinez, respectively, signed until 2026.
Guardiola has a history of extending his City contract, but current signals suggest this time might be different as he nears his nine-year milestone in Manchester. Should he leave, any national team would significantly benefit from his expertise. England, in particular, could provide a critical edge in luring one of football’s greatest managers into their fold for the next World Cup.
