Gary Lineker, along with Micah Richards and Alan Shearer, recently discussed the possibility of Pep Guardiola, the current manager of Manchester City, taking on the role of England manager. Despite Guardiola’s immense success at Manchester City, there are currently no plans to change the management of the England national team.
While there were rumors that Gareth Southgate, the current England manager, might resign after the 2024 Summer Olympics, it remains uncertain. Guardiola’s contract with Manchester City expires in the summer of 2025, and many City fans hope he will continue with the club, potentially completing a decade at the helm.
The idea of Guardiola managing the England national team seems unlikely. Guardiola has spent his entire managerial career in club football and appears to thrive on the all-encompassing nature of the club game. International management differs significantly in terms of demands and workload, which may not align with Guardiola’s passion for the relentless work of club management.
Lineker, during the podcast discussion, expressed his doubts about Guardiola taking on the role of the England manager, stating that he would be very surprised if Guardiola decided to do so. Guardiola is currently in his seventh season at Manchester City, where he has displayed an unwavering commitment to the game and an obsession with his work.
The demands of international football, with less frequent matches and limited time spent with players, contrast with Guardiola’s preference for the day-to-day involvement and strategic depth that club management offers. However, it’s not entirely out of the realm of possibility, as Guardiola might view success in international management as a way to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest football managers in history.
