Pep Guardiola ‘had verbal agreement’ to take over as England boss in 2024 – before staying at Man City after U-turn

Pep Guardiola has reportedly made a verbal agreement to take over as England head coach in 2024 before abandoning his decision to stay at Man City.

According to the Athletic, Guardiola was the first target of the Football Association, which was looking for an elite coach to replace Gareth Southgate.

Daily Mail Sport reported in the summer of 2024 that Guardiola was expected to end his glorious period in office at the end of this season, and a change of guard was most likely expected by those close to him.

While senior figures at Manchester City were tentatively discussing succession planning, Guardiola was approached by the FA about the England job in July.

Guardiola’s friends were under the impression that the prospect of replacing Gareth Southgate was something he was seriously considering.

The Athletic reported that Guardiola agreed to take charge of the Three Lions but later decided to renew his contract with Manchester City.

Guardiola reportedly the FA’s first choice but turned to Thomas Tuchel after the Spaniard’s U-turn

This led to the FA turning back to Tuchel, who was officially announced as England manager in October 2024.

It was confirmed just a month later that Guardiola’s contract at Man City would be extended by two years.

The Spaniard ended his illustrious reign at Manchester City at the end of last season, ending a decade-long leadership of the club.

Guardiola has previously spoken of his desire to move into international management in the future.

‘I would like to train a national team for the World Cup or European Championship. “I would like this in 2024,” Guardiola said.

‘I don’t know who would want me! In order for you to work in the national team, they have to want you just like a club.’

Daily Mail Sport understands Tuchel retains FA support on the contrary EnglandHe disappointed Argentina in the semi-finals of the World Cup this week.

The Three Lions boss came under heavy criticism after his team conceded two late runs against old rivals Argentina in Atlanta.

Tuchel’s England lost 2-1 to Argentina in the World Cup semi-final.

Tuchel came under fire for his defensive substitutions during the defeat, but it is understood the FA will continue their support.

England had taken the lead through Anthony Gordon but were defeated after a series of game-changing defensive substitutions, with the initiative handed over to their spirited opponents; The rivals advanced to the final thanks to goals from Enzo Fernandez and the extra-time winner Lautaro Martinez.

Some have even questioned whether the German, who has a contract to lead England to the top of the Euros, now faces a fight to save his job, given the circumstances of an incredibly painful defeat.

However, it is understood that the FA has full confidence in the former coach of Chelsea and Bayern Munich and will continue his duty if he wishes.

After the heartbreaking loss, Tuchel took responsibility for the loss and declared he had “no regrets”.

He also reiterated his desire to take England to the Euros within two years by extending his contract in February.

FA chief executive Mark Bullingham did not mention Tuchel’s contract in his post-match comments but it is understood he remains fully behind the head coach.

“It’s heartbreaking to be this close,” Bullingham said. ‘The players and Thomas gave their all today and the team, coaches and staff could not have worked harder throughout the tournament.

I want to thank them all and also extend my heartfelt thanks to our wonderful fans in the US and at home.

‘We’ve felt your support every step of the way and we’re all very disappointed we couldn’t go further.’