Pep Guardiola to bring football home? Man City boss wants to manage at World Cup and has exit strategy in place as England eye Southgate replacement

As Guardiola enters the final 12 months of his contract at the Etihad Stadium, speculation is rife about his next move. Having dominated leagues in England, Spain, and Germany, the six-time Premier League champion is now contemplating a shift to the international stage. His contract, which ends in 2025, positions him ideally for the 2026 World Cup, giving him a year to prepare a national team for the global tournament set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to The Mirror, one of the most plausible destinations for Guardiola could be the England national team. With Southgate's departure, the Football Association might consider Guardiola as a prime candidate. This could mean that England could have an interim manager until the summer of 2025 before Guardiola finally takes over after honouring his contract with the Premier League champions.

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Speaking toESPN Brasilin February, Guardiola admitted to harbouring ambitions of managing a national team in an international major. He said: "A national team. I would like to train a national team for a World Cup or a European Championship. I would like that. I don't know who would want me! To work for a national team they have to want you, just like a club."

Despite Guardiola's connections to Spain, his native country, the likelihood of him coaching the Spanish national team seems slim. Luis de la Fuente, having led Spain to victory in Euro 2024, appears firmly entrenched in his role. Similarly, other prominent football nations like France, Germany, and Portugal have their managerial positions secured with Didier Deschamps, Julian Nagelsmann, and Roberto Martinez respectively, all contracted until 2026.

As Guardiola’s contract with Manchester City winds down, the football world is abuzz with possibilities. England could benefit from the contractual situation as the Three Lions offer him the perfect blend of football heritage and potential to fulfil his World Cup ambitions.