Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has expressed his belief that Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola would be the perfect fit to replace Gareth Southgate as England manager.
Southgate’s departure following the Three Lions’ Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain has left the team without a full-time boss, with Lee Carsley currently serving as interim manager.
In an interview with Express Sport, Pique praised Guardiola’s understanding of the Premier League and English football, stating, “I think he would be great, he would be amazing.” The ex-Manchester United and Barcelona defender added, “He understands perfectly the Premier League and English football, and I know he wants to be the manager of a national team in the future. I think it makes sense for Guardiola to be the coach of England.”
Pique also acknowledged England’s potential, saying, “I think that they are knocking on the door, and at some point, the door opens.” He continued, “I think they have a good team, had a good coach.” The former defender’s endorsement of Guardiola comes as the English Football Association searches for a permanent replacement for Southgate.
Guardiola’s success at Manchester City and his experience in the Premier League make him an attractive candidate for the England manager position. Pique’s comments have sparked speculation about Guardiola’s potential future with the national team, as the Spanish manager has previously expressed his desire to manage a national team.