Pep Guardiola's new role as a global ambassador for the City Football Group (CFG) effectively blocks him from taking the England manager's job, should it become available, according to reports. The Catalan coach left Manchester City after a decade in charge and has taken up a position that prevents him from accepting any other coaching role.
England Links After World Cup Exit
Speculation about Guardiola succeeding Thomas Tuchel arose after England's semi-final defeat to Argentina at the World Cup. Tuchel remains under contract until Euro 2028, but the manner of the loss has raised questions about his future. The Football Association (FA) has long admired Guardiola, having attempted to appoint him in 2024 while he was still at City.
Guardiola has expressed interest in managing a national team and would consider England, but his current commitments with CFG create a significant obstacle. The group owns clubs such as Palermo, Lommel, and Troyes, and Guardiola will provide technical advice across these teams.
CFG Ambassador Role Prevents Coaching
Guardiola's job description includes "working on specific projects and collaborations" with CFG, which prohibits him from taking any other coaching position. City CEO Ferran Soriano confirmed the arrangement: "As we celebrate the past, we are also very happy to know that Pep will stay with the group and we will be able to use his knowledge and experience in so many of our other clubs to help managers and players." Soriano added, "He is a City legend... forever."
While City's owners are unlikely to block Guardiola if a coaching opportunity he truly wanted arose, the CFG role is one of several hurdles. Guardiola has also stated he needs a break from coaching after a decade at City, with close friends doubting he can stay away even for months.
Guardiola's Future Plans
Guardiola has challenged himself to take time off, despite his love for the game. His new ambassadorial role allows him to stay involved without the daily pressures of management. Whether he eventually returns to coaching remains uncertain, but for now, the England job—if it becomes vacant—appears out of reach.
