Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola has not ruled out the possibility of becoming the next England national team manager, as speculation grows about who will take over from interim coach Lee Carsley. The position became vacant after Gareth Southgate retired following England’s defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.

The Football Association (FA) appointed Carsley, a former Everton midfielder and current England U21 coach, as a temporary replacement for the UEFA Nations League campaign. However, Carsley has made it clear that he does not wish to stay in the role long-term. Speaking before England’s recent 3-1 victory over Finland, Carsley told the press, “I don’t see this as an audition. I have three more games to manage,” signaling his intention to step down after November.

This leaves the FA searching for a new permanent head coach before 2025, and Guardiola has emerged as a dream candidate for the role. Guardiola’s current contract with Manchester City runs until the end of the 2024/25 season, and it remains uncertain whether he will renew it. England’s next major tournament is the 2026 World Cup, a challenge that could intrigue the Spanish coach, especially since it would offer a break from the intense day-to-day demands of club football.

In an interview with Che Tempo Che Fa, Guardiola hinted at the uncertainty of his future, stating, “We’ll see what happens with my future.” He added, “I haven’t decided anything, anything can happen. So, I don’t know.”

While Guardiola emphasized his current commitment to Manchester City, he did not rule out taking the England job in the future. When asked directly if the England role could be his next step, Guardiola responded, “That’s not true. I’m the Manchester City coach. I haven’t decided anything yet.”

If Guardiola were to take the England role, it would be a highly anticipated appointment, sparking excitement across English football. His track record of success at both Barcelona and Manchester City, combined with his innovative tactical approach, would make him a popular choice to lead the national team.

For now, Guardiola remains focused on his responsibilities at City, but with his contract ending next year and no decisions made, the door remains open for a potential future with England.