Guardiola Was Approached for England Job – Could He Lead the Three Lions in 2030?
In a surprising twist, Pep Guardiola, the mastermind behind Manchester City’s recent dominance, was offered the England managerial role, according to football expert Guillem Balague. While the Spaniard turned down the offer for now, Balague believes Guardiola still has his eye on leading the Three Lions—possibly for the 2030 World Cup.
Guardiola, 53, has long been linked to managing a national team, and England may be his top pick when the timing is right. Balague revealed that the FA approached Guardiola after Gareth Southgate vacated the position earlier this year, but the City boss wasn’t ready to commit.
“He actually was offered the job. He thought about it for two months. And after two months he said, ‘No, because I don’t even know what I’m going to do at the end of this season,’” Balague shared on BBC Radio 5 Live.
With his Manchester City contract set to expire at the end of the current season, Guardiola’s future remains uncertain. While rumors swirl, City insiders suggest he’s more likely to sign an extension than leave, but Balague hinted that Guardiola’s interest in a national role—particularly with England—hasn’t faded.
“What seems clear is that in the cycle from the next World Cup to the following one in 2030, Guardiola will have a national side—and England are favourites,” Balague teased. [But he cautioned], “If Tuchel wins the World Cup, forget that plan!”
Tuchel Steps in for 2026
Former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel has already taken the reins of the England squad, signing an 18-month contract that will see him lead the team through the 2026 World Cup. Tuchel, who was previously linked to the Manchester United job, accepted the FA’s offer after Guardiola declined.
But for now, Pep remains committed to Manchester City, even downplaying the England speculation when asked directly at a press conference last week. “Thomas Tuchel is the manager, so forget about it. I’m the manager of Manchester City, so the conversations I have are about Manchester City. This is what it is,” he stated firmly.
The Future of England’s Dugout
So, while Tuchel is steering the ship for now, Balague and many football insiders think Guardiola’s time could come—especially if the FA still fancies him after 2026. Could we see the Spaniard leading England to glory in 2030? Only time will tell.
But as Balague cryptically hinted, England might still have the chance to land their man: “Guardiola managing a national team is inevitable—and England is at the top of that list.”
