Pep Guardiola, the esteemed manager of Manchester City, is considering a new challenge: managing a national team in a World Cup. With his contract at Manchester City set to expire in 2025, the football world is abuzz with speculation about his next move.

Having achieved remarkable success with Manchester City, winning the Premier League six times, Guardiola is now contemplating a shift to international football. His experience in top leagues in England, Spain, and Germany has cemented his reputation as one of the best managers in the game. Now, he is eyeing the opportunity to lead a national team on the global stage, specifically at the 2026 World Cup.

Pep Guardiola's possible next step after Manchester City

According to reports, Guardiola's next destination could be the England national team. Gareth Southgate has stepped down, and the Football Association will likely consider Guardiola a prime candidate to take over. This scenario would allow Guardiola to honor his contract with Manchester City, which ends in 2025, and then take the reins of the England team in time to prepare for the World Cup.

Guardiola has expressed his interest in managing a national team in the past. In an interview with ESPN Brasil, he stated, “I would like to train a national team for a World Cup or a European Championship. I would like that. I don't know who would want me! To work for a national team, they have to want you, just like a club.” This admission has fueled the speculation that he is seriously considering a move to international football.

While Guardiola is originally from Spain, the possibility of him managing the Spanish national team seems unlikely. Spain's current manager, Luis de la Fuente, led the team to victory in Euro 2024 and is firmly established in his position. Similarly, other major footballing nations such as France, Germany, and Portugal have their coaching positions secured until 2026, making England a plausible option for Guardiola.

The idea of Guardiola leading England is not just speculation; it has practical merits. England has a rich football history and a pool of talented players, but it has often fallen short on the international stage. Guardiola's expertise in team building, strategy, and player management could be the missing piece that helps England break its World Cup drought. His experience in high-pressure situations and his ability to get the best out of his players make him an ideal candidate for such a role.

As Guardiola's time with Manchester City draws to a close, the football community is excited about the potential changes on the horizon. His successful tenure at the club has showcased his ability to transform teams and lead them to victory. Transitioning to a national team could be the next step in his illustrious career, allowing him to pursue his dream of winning a World Cup as a manager.

Having Guardiola as the national team manager for England could be a game-changer. His tactical acumen, experience, and winning mentality could give the Three Lions the boost they need to compete at the highest level on the world stage. The blend of England's rich football heritage and Guardiola's proven track record could be a perfect match.

However, the transition from club to national team management is not without its challenges. The nature of international football, with fewer matches and less time to work with players, requires a different approach. Guardiola would need to adapt his methods to fit the international calendar and develop a strong understanding of his players in a shorter time frame. But if anyone is up to the task, it is Guardiola, known for his meticulous planning and adaptability.

Guardiola's potential move from Manchester City to managing a national team is exciting for football fans worldwide. As his contract nears its end, the speculation about his future continues to grow. Whether he takes on the challenge of leading England or another national team, Guardiola's impact on international football is eagerly anticipated. The 2026 World Cup could be the stage where he adds another remarkable chapter to his storied career. Football enthusiasts will be watching closely to see where Guardiola's journey takes him next, hoping to witness his brilliance on the world stage.