Pep Guardiola responds to England head coach job links

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has responded to the rumours that he is the preferred man by the English FA to take over from Gareth Southgate. 

The job became vacant after Southgate unilaterally left in the aftermath of the European Championship final defeat to Spain. The 53-year-old led England through their most consistent spell of excellence but never managed to bring home a trophy. 

He faced wanton criticism during his stint in charge, and after another Euro final loss, he decided to pass on the baton. The FA are scouring the market for a replacement and are said to have identified Guardiola as the prime candidate.

The Spaniard is preparing his team for the next season when they will aim to extend their record and become the first team to win the English top division in five consecutive years. 

During a press conference, he was asked about the reports linking him with the English national team job, and Guardiola played it down. He stated that he is happy at Manchester City as he looks forward to the next season. 

“I’m really excited for this upcoming season,” he told reporters at a presser, per Goal. “I’m really happy here. Every season I need the break, definitely, but after that, I recharge my batteries and I have the same energy as usual. I know the competition is coming, and I am fully focused on that.”

The ex-Barcelona midfielder’s contract with Manchester City will expire in the summer of 2025. While he plans on honouring the last year of his deal, there are indications that he will not sign a renewal. 

The FA is said to be counting on this and could hire U-21 manager Lee Carsley on an interim basis until Guardiola becomes contractually available. 

They are also said to be considering the likes of Mauricio Pochettino, Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, and Jurgen Klopp for the role.