Pep Guardiola has broken his silence over speculation that he may be considering the role of England’s new manager following Gareth Southgate’s departure.
Pep Guardiola has broken his silence over speculation that he may be considering the role of England‘s new manager following Gareth Southgate‘s departure.
The Football Association is currently searching for Southgate’s successor following his resignation after last month’s Euro 2024 final defeat by Spain.
Reports in recent days have linked the Spaniard with the Three Lions’ job and suggested that the FA are keen to appoint an overseas coach to lead the next phase of England’s development.
Guardiola, who led City to a record fourth consecutive Premier League title last season, has 12 months remaining on his contract with the Citizens and is widely expected to leave the club next year.
During his time in Manchester, the 53-year-old has won 225 of his 304 league games in charge of the Citizens, achieving an impressive win rate of 74.01%.
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Guardiola rubbishes England manager role rumours
While reports suggest that the City boss is eyeing up the England role, Guardiola has now rubbished those claims, confirming that he has not spoken to anyone regarding the vacant position and insisting he is looking forward to next season with his club.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Guardiola said: “I am here, I am really pleased. I cannot say anything. I don’t know where it has come from. I am really satisfied here.
“I am desperate for when the players are ready to come back to start to train all together and refresh what we have to do,” he added.
The Spaniard is currently away with his squad on their pre-season tour of the United States, with a match against Chelsea in Ohio scheduled for Saturday night.
After their match against Enzo Maresca‘s side, Guardiola and his squad will return to England to prepare for their Community Shield fixture against Manchester United at Wembley next week.
![Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe pictured on May 22, 2024 [IMAGO]](https://sm.imgix.net/24/25/eddie-howe_1.jpg?w=640&h=480&auto=compress,format&fit=clip "Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe pictured on May 22, 2024 [IMAGO]")
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Potential candidates for England manager role
With the FA actively looking for Southgate’s long-term replacement, several other big-name managers have been linked with the role.
Among those believed to be on the FA’s radar is Jurgen Klopp, though the former Liverpool boss played down the rumours at the International Coaches’ Congress when asked if he was returning to the game.
Leading candidate Eddie Howe has expressed his satisfaction at Newcastle United but emphasised the need for assurances about his future role if he is to remain at St James’ Park.
Other contenders for the England job include Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, and Lee Carsley, with Sean Dyche and Thomas Frank, also mentioned as outside bets for the position.