Guardiola had verbal agreement to become England manager in 2024

Earlier today, Pep Guardiola said he has no plans to return to management in the immediate future, effectively ruling out the possibility of taking charge of Italy.

“Mentally, I don’t miss anything. I don’t think that in two weeks or a month I will have to start again from scratch. I am simply trying to understand what my life will be like,” he said.

The Athletic has since revealed an intriguing detail involving the former Manchester City manager.

England had verbal agreement with Guardiola

According to The Athletic, the Football Association contacted Guardiola in 2024 about taking charge of the Three Lions and even reached a verbal agreement with the Catalan coach. Guardiola ultimately decided to extend his stay at Manchester City, forcing the FA to turn instead to Thomas Tuchel. The German is now under intense scrutiny after England’s semi-final defeat to Argentina, with particular criticism focused on his tactical management of the game after taking the lead.

What next for Tuchel?

Tuchel has confirmed he wants to continue as England manager. His contract also included a break clause allowing the FA to terminate the deal, but only if England failed to reach at least the quarter-finals.

Even so, pressure on the governing body to make a change is growing. A decision will come only after the end of the World Cup, with England due to face France in Saturday’s third-place play-off.

Only then would any talks with Tuchel take place.