Pep Guardiola reportedly had a verbal agreement to take over as England head coach in 2024, before reversing his decision to remain at Man City.
According to the Athletic, Guardiola had been the Football Association’s first target when it sought an elite coach to succeed Gareth Southgate.
Daily Mail Sport had reported in the summer of 2024 that Guardiola was expected to call time on his illustrious spell in charge at the end of this season, with a changing of the guard deemed highly likely by those close to him.
Senior figures at Man City had been tentatively discussing succession planning, with Guardiola having received contact from the FA about the England job in July.
Friends of Guardiola had been left with the impression that the possibility of replacing Gareth Southgate was something he was seriously considering.
The Athletic reported that Guardiola had agreed to take charge of the Three Lions, but then decided to renew his Man City contract.
This led to the FA turning to Tuchel, who was officially announced as England manager in October 2024.
Guardiola’s two-year contract extension at Man City was confirmed just one month later.
The Spaniard ended his illustrious Man City reign at the end of last season, bringing an end to a decade-long spell in charge of the club.
Guardiola has previously spoken of his desire to move into international management in the future.
‘I would like to train a national team for a World Cup or a European Championship. I would like that,’ Guardiola said in 2024.
‘I don’t know who would want me! To work for a national team they have to want you, just like a club.’
