Pep Guardiola Reacts To Tuchel’s Appointment, Avoids England Job Speculation

Pep Guardiola refused to say whether he was approached over the England job before the Football Association appointed Thomas Tuchel, as he wished the German “the very best” in charge of the national team.

Reports indicated that Guardiola emerged as the preferred candidate for the England managerial position following Gareth Southgate’s resignation, with the FA willing to bide their time to secure the Manchester City manager for the 2026 World Cup.

However, talks between the FA and Tuchel accelerated earlier this month after first contact was made in August, and the German will take charge in January, with interim Lee Carsley overseeing next month’s camp.

FA chief executive Mark Bullingham revealed at Tuchel’s unveiling that “approximately 10 candidates” were interviewed, including some from England, although Newcastle boss Eddie Howe revealed he was not contacted.

However, Guardiola did not want to divert attention from Manchester City’s upcoming Premier League match against Wolves on Sunday. He refrained from commenting on whether he had been approached by the FA or if discussions were underway regarding an extension of his tenure at the club.

Guardiola’s contract at City expires at the end of the season.

“Thomas Tuchel is the manager. I congratulate them, the FA and Thomas, for a big job,” Guardiola said. “I wish England, for the fact I am nine years here, the very best for both of them.”

When asked to clarify if there had been any contact from the FA, Guardiola replied, “Thomas Tuchel is the manager. So forget about it.

“I am the manager of Man City. The conversations I have is with Man City. This is what it is.

“Tuchel is the manager already. Thomas is there. This is the most important thing. The rest is not important.”