Pep Guardiola (foto: Getty Images)
Pep Guardiola addresses rumors of him coaching Brazil, stating his focus remains on Manchester City. Talks of a national team role for 2030 continue to circulate.
Manchester City has hit a rough patch with three consecutive losses across all competitions, the latest being a 4-1 defeat to Sporting in the Champions League. In the aftermath of this defeat, a comment from Pep Guardiola sparked renewed speculation about his future, specifically regarding a possible move to coach Brazil.
When asked about the rumors linking him with the Brazilian national team, Guardiola initially tried to brush off the topic with humor, saying, “After a 4-1 loss, I’m no longer an option.” However, as reporters pressed, Guardiola eventually clarified his focus:
"I have a very clear and strong desire to bring this team (Manchester City) back to the highest level. The challenge is huge, but I’m here. We knew from the start that this would be a tough season, but that’s how it is. I love it here, I love all of this, and I want to face the problems and lift my players," he explained, firmly stating that Manchester City is his priority.
Despite this, rumors persist that there have been some contacts between Guardiola and the Brazilian Football Federation, although it’s unclear if these amounted to negotiations or a formal offer.
Guardiola has previously expressed a desire to coach a national team at a major tournament. When he left Barcelona, reports suggested he was disappointed when Brazil’s football federation backed away from the idea of offering him the role of head coach, although it was never confirmed.
Recent whispers indicate that Guardiola might stay with Manchester City for one more season while possibly preparing to coach a national team in the 2030 World Cup. Sources within the club suggest a shift in atmosphere, with a contract extension not ruled out. Guardiola’s recent trip to Abu Dhabi for marketing obligations also fueled speculation that he may have met with Sheikh Mansour, the club’s owner.
For now, Guardiola seems in no rush to make a decision, stating he’s not hurrying into negotiations. The timing of any talks may depend on the outcome of City’s legal proceedings, which could impact the club’s future.