Guardiola rejects Inter Miami and eyes England job after Manchester City exit

Pep Guardiola has rejected a formal approach from Inter Miami and made clear to close friends that international management — not a return to club football — is where he wants his career to go next, following his departure from Manchester City after a decade in charge.

David Beckham had made Guardiola his first choice to replace Javier Mascherano at Inter Miami, with the club deliberately delaying its managerial search in the hope of persuading him to move to Major League Soccer. Guardiola has since signalled to the club’s hierarchy that any further attempts to change his mind would be futile.

Rather than stepping straight into another role, Guardiola is committed to a sabbatical. Having overseen a period of sustained dominance at City, he intends to spend time with his family and step away from frontline football before considering his next move.

When he does return, the England national team is reported to be his preferred destination. Guardiola has privately expressed to friends that managing a nation to World Cup victory is his primary remaining ambition. The Football Association originally pursued him following Gareth Southgate’s resignation in 2024, but a deal could not be struck at the time. The FA has continued to keep him at the top of its wishlist.

The immediate obstacle is Thomas Tuchel, who is contracted to lead England through to Euro 2028. Tuchel’s position could come under pressure, however, if England underperform at the upcoming World Cup.

Back at City, a successor to Guardiola has yet to be named. His former assistant Enzo Maresca is reported to be the leading candidate for the role. Guardiola has said he will reach out to whoever is appointed to offer his support, and has advised his successor to remain authentic and stay true to their own footballing ideas. Guardiola himself will take on a backroom role at City Football Group as a global ambassador.