Pep Guardiola could see himself taking over as England manager ahead of the 2030 World Cup, despite recently declining an offer from the FA, according to renowned football journalist Guillem Balague.
The Manchester City manager emerged as a strong contender for the England job before Thomas Tuchel’s appointment earlier this month.
With his current contract at City set to expire this summer, Guardiola’s long-term future remains uncertain.
“He is reportedly considering signing a contract extension with the Premier League champions.
However, Guardiola has openly expressed a desire to manage a national team at some point in his career.
Balague, a close friend of the Spanish coach, believes England would be Guardiola’s top choice when he eventually moves into international management.
Balague also revealed that the FA approached Guardiola after Gareth Southgate stepped down in July, offering him the England role.
As of now, Pep Guardiola remains undecided about his next career move.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Balague said: “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’.”
“Manchester City right now feel he’s closer to staying than leaving but nobody really knows.”
Tuchel has signed an 18-month contract to become the new head coach of the England national team, following discussions with the FA.
He is set to lead the Three Lions into the 2026 World Cup.
The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager was previously linked with the Manchester United job before deciding to take on this significant role with England.
In related news, Spanish football expert Guillem Balague shared insights on Pep Guardiola’s future plans.
He believes that the England job would be particularly appealing to Guardiola as the 2030 World Cup approaches, provided all parties are interested in making that vision a reality.
He teased: “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 added: “If Tuchel wins the World Cup, forget that plan!”
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