Guillem Balague has indicated that Pep Guardiola is set to conclude his two-year contract with Manchester City and retire from club management. Guardiola, who has been at the helm of Manchester City since 2016, will have completed nine seasons by the end of his current contract, marking a substantial managerial tenure.
Balague suggests that Guardiola, known for revolutionizing the game, will opt to step away from day-to-day managerial responsibilities by 2025, choosing to enter international management, a less demanding role.
Despite achieving tremendous success, including stints with Bayern Munich and Barcelona, Guardiola is expected to announce his departure from club management at the age of 54 when his contract expires.
Balague notes that Guardiola’s likely destination for international management is England, a country where he has worked with current Three Lions players such as Phil Foden, John Stones, and Kyle Walker. Balague highlights Guardiola’s impact on player development, stating, “He’s dealt with the players, he’s improved the players.”
While Guardiola’s decision aligns with his previous statements expressing a desire to eventually transition to national team coaching, the specific timing may have extended beyond initial expectations.
Despite achieving a treble with Manchester City last season, Guardiola is eager to pursue international recognition. He envisions himself coaching at major international tournaments such as the European Championship, Copa America, or World Cup.
Gareth Southgate’s potential resignation as England manager after the upcoming European Championships opens up a window of opportunity, although the timelines don’t perfectly align.
Guardiola has previously expressed a desire for a break after seven years at Manchester City, emphasizing the importance of learning from other coaches before potentially embarking on the national team coaching path. He has explicitly stated, “I’d like to be a coach at a European Championship, a Copa America, or a World Cup.”
In the event of Guardiola’s availability, the Football Association (FA) would likely express interest, especially if Southgate steps down.
Additionally, if a coaching position becomes vacant for the Netherlands, Guardiola’s association with Johan Cruyff’s football philosophy may link him to the Dutch role. Guardiola’s potential move into international management represents a new chapter in his illustrious career, one that has significantly impacted the football landscape.
