Guardiola agreed England terms in 2024 before change of heart left door open for Tuchel

Pep Guardiola agreed personal terms with the Football Association to become England manager in 2024, only to change his mind and remain at Manchester City for two further seasons, according to a report from The Athletic.

The revelation adds fresh context to the appointment of Thomas Tuchel, who ultimately took charge of the Three Lions after Guardiola’s U-turn. Southgate had resigned following England’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, opening the door for a high-profile successor.

Guardiola, 55, went on to complete a trophy-laden decade at the Etihad Stadium before departing this summer. During his 10-year tenure he delivered six Premier League titles, 11 domestic trophies, and the Champions League — a haul that made him one of the most decorated managers in English football history.

Tuchel, meanwhile, inherited a squad brimming with expectation and delivered a flawless World Cup qualifying campaign, keeping a clean sheet throughout and leaning heavily on Jordan Pickford’s form between the posts. The German guided England to the semi-finals unbeaten.

However, a 2-1 loss to Argentina at that stage has triggered a wave of criticism — directed not only at the result but at Tuchel’s tactical approach to the contest. England fans have taken particular issue with how the team set up for the match, and questions over his future are now circulating.

The FA has not yet made a public statement on Tuchel’s position following the elimination.