15 october 2024 : The Football Association (FA) is reportedly exploring the possibility of appointing Pep Guardiola as the next England manager. With Guardiola’s contract at Manchester City expiring next summer, The Times reports that the FA informally reached out to him at the start of the season, though no response has been received yet.
Former Manchester United player Roy Keane has urged the FA to pursue Guardiola, stating during an ITV broadcast after England’s 3-1 win over Finland, “Go for the best. Pep’s contract ends in the summer.”
Guardiola has expressed uncertainty about his future, telling the Italian show Che tempo Che Fa, “Leaving City? That’s not true. I haven’t decided yet.” He also dispelled rumors of being England’s next manager, saying, “If I had made a decision, I would announce it… I’m undecided; anything could happen.”
Since joining Manchester City in 2016, Guardiola has won six Premier League titles and a Champions League, making him a top contender for the England role. However, bookmakers currently favor Thomas Tuchel, who has managed Paris St Germain, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich.
In the meantime, England Under-21s manager Lee Carsley will lead the senior team in the Nations League matches next month following Gareth Southgate’s exit after Euro 2024. The FA and Manchester City have both declined to comment on the rumors.
