'I don't want to pretend' - Man City boss Pep Guardiola explains why he will never become a pundit after ending stellar coaching career

Guardiola's City face Neville's Salford in the third round of the FA Cup this weekend. The former Manchester United right-back has carved out a successful career in punditry, working with Sky Sports, as well as the BBC and ITV during major tournaments. But Guardiola insists he could never pass judgement on his peers.

Neville joked that Guardiola could be sacked if City lose to Salford amid a terrible run of form that has seen them drop into sixth in the Premier League. They are currently 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, and the Catalan has already conceded the title.

Guardiola was asked if he could go into punditry and replied: "I don't think I'm going to do that. I am cautious. I couldn't make a comment that could hurt my colleagues. I know how difficult this job is, how difficult it is, and I don’t want to pretend sitting there.

"It's so unpredictable and many things happen. I (could) hurt someone sometimes with the delivery. We can agree and disagree. My job is here, their job is there.

"I wanted to defend my club, it's not personal. I know how difficult it is. I was a football player before, now a manager and our business is so complicated and so unpredictable, I don’t want to hurt my colleagues in a position to do it. Maybe it will happen in the future - but honestly I don't think so."

After facing Salford, Guardiola's side take on Brentford on Tuesday in the Premier League hoping to continue their improved form.