Pep Guardiola Now Favourite To Be Next England Manager

With Gareth Southgate announcing he was stepping down as England’s head coach shortly after the Euro 2024 final in July, the FA have been on the hunt for a worthy replacement. After an eight-year stint as England manager and some impressive achievements, including leading England to two consecutive European Championship finals, Southgate’s exit has prompted widespread speculation about his successor. Among the most discussed and favoured candidates is Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola. It seems as though there have been developments with Pep taking over the national side as bookmaker bet365 have reported that prices have shortened dramatically from 25/1 just a week or so ago, to just 2/1, making the 2023 treble winner, the new favourite to be the next England manager.

Gareth Southgate

Although his style of play was not everyone’s cup of tea, Gareth Southgate did transform the national team during his reign as England manager. Under the management of Southgate, England reached the finals of two major tournaments. A feat that shouldn’t be underestimated considering the only other major final they have reached was at the 1966 World Cup. However, pressured to or not, Southgate announced the end of his tenure following England’s narrow 2-1 defeat to Spain at Euro 2024 and has left the FA with the task of finding a replacement who can build on this foundation and take England to higher levels.

Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola’s managerial record speaks for itself. With multiple league titles, domestic cups, and UEFA Champions League trophies under his belt, Guardiola has cemented his reputation as one of the greatest football managers of all time. Since joining Manchester City in 2016, he has revolutionised the club, leading them to unprecedented success the club hasn’t experienced before, including multiple Premier League titles and a historic treble in the 2022-2023 season.

Guardiola’s teams are known for their possession-based football, high pressing, and fluid attacking movements. This style of play has not only brought earned him titles, but also influenced a generation of coaches and players. Guardiola’s ability to adapt his tactics to the strengths of his players and the tournaments and competitions that they play in, is a key reason why he is considered the ideal candidate for the England job. Many have been frustrated with Southgate’s style of play over the years. Although his record in major tournaments speak for themselves, questions were asked around the decisions he made in tough situations.

Beyond his tactical acumen, Guardiola is renowned for his leadership qualities. He has a unique ability to motivate players, bringing out the best in them, both individually and collectively. His emphasis on discipline, hard work, and a winning mentality could be instrumental in taking England to the next level. Guardiola is also known for his ability to motivate players. Although this didn’t seem to be an issue with Southgate, with a young and talented squad at his disposal, Guardiola could be the ideal candidate to get the best out of a talented England squad, and lead them to further success in major tournaments.

Is Guardiola Available For The England Role?

While Guardiola’s credentials make him the obvious choice for England’s next head coach, the timing of his potential appointment could be an issue. Guardiola is currently under contract with Manchester City until 2025, and it is unclear whether he would be willing to leave the club before his contract expires. The FA would need to consider whether they are prepared to wait for Guardiola to become available or if they should pursue an alternative candidate until then.

Should the FA decide to wait for Guardiola, they may need to appoint an interim manager to bridge the gap. Lee Carsley, currently managing England’s Under-21s, has been suggested as a potential caretaker manager.

Manchester City

Guardiola’s possible departure from Manchester City would have huge implications for the club. His influence extends far beyond the pitch, shaping the club’s philosophy, transfer strategy, and youth development. Finding a replacement who can maintain the same level of success and continue the club’s upward trajectory would be a tough task for City’s board.

City may need to consider possible replacements in advance should things progress with Guardiola and the England job. Potential candidates could include former assistants like Mikel Arteta, now managing Arsenal, or other high-profile managers who share Guardiola’s footballing philosophy.

Pep Guardiola England Manager Odds