Manchester City supremo Pep Guardiola leaves the door open on his future amid growing speculation over a potential move to manage the England national team. Pep, out of contract at Etihad Stadium at the end of the season, has become the subject of intense discussion as the FA, which considers life after Gareth Southgate, casts for a national coach. Since he arrived at Manchester City in 2016, the 53-year-old has built himself into one of the world's top-ever managers as he has guided the club to six Premier League titles as well as its first Champions League title.
Even if he is well in love with the club, Guardiola has yet to sign an extension and speculation about a new challenge—possibly as the head coach of England has started. Speaking on the Italian television show Che Tempo Che Fa, Guardiola discussed the uncertainty surrounding his future. "Leaving City? Not true. I haven't decided yet," he clarified. And it is not even true that I will be the next England coach. If I had decided, I would say it." I don't know either; anything can happen. The more he rules it out, the more fuel this statement adds to the speculation over his availability for the England job.
All these options are said to be in consideration for the FA as they plan for the post-Southgate era. Southgate is leaving after the European Championships next summer. It will be during one of the most successful phases for England in recent history. Guardiola is the dream candidate for the football fraternity for so many reasons, which will look towards turning the fortunes of the Three Lions through the sheer genius of tactics and winning credentials. Former Manchester United captain and current ITV pundit Roy Keane has made public statements suggesting the FA needs to do something and sign up Guardiola. Keane then continued by saying that England should only go for the best in the world of footballing.
Speaking after the 3-1 Nations League victory over Finland, Keane believed Guardiola would be Southgate's dream successor. "The FA have to go for the best guy, whatever," Keane said. "Go for the best. Pep's contract is up in the summer." Keane's words sum up the ever-growing sense that Guardiola's potential availability represents a very rare window of opportunity for England to attract one of football's cleverest heads. The FA will probably have to wait, though, as Guardiola reportedly wants to end this season with Manchester City and try to retain their domestic as well as European titles.
It won't be easy for Guardiola. His bonding with the club has been very close and transformed the club from less into one of the world's powers at his instance. However, his contract is expiring soon, and he can take on the opportunity to lead the country of England, with a young, energetic, and talented squad promising a great future for the team. As wait-and-see fans, pundits, and the FA await clarity, one thing is certain: Guardiola's next move could shape not only his legacy but the future of English football. It will take the case either further solidifying his reign in Manchester City or taking up a new challenge with England, as it seems like the forecast of every football enthusiast, and the world would watch closely.
