Pep Guardiola is set to reject the chance to replace Mauricio Pochettino as United States boss after telling friends he wants the England job. The former Manchester City manager is believed to be at the top of US Soccer's wishlist after Pochettino's decision to take charge at Manchester United.
However, Guardiola is likely to turn down any approach to replace the Argentine as he is determined to take a year out of the game following his decade at City, reports the Telegraph. That is despite his obvious affection for the US, where he spent a previous sabbatical from management, living in New York.
International ambitions
It is no secret that Guardiola fancies a crack at international management one day. Last year, he said: "I would love to be in a World Cup, in a Euro, a Copa America [as a manager]."
He recently held talks about taking the Italy job, which went to Roberto Mancini, while he has previously been linked with the Brazil job, currently held by Carlo Ancelotti.
However, it is reportedly the Three Lions that Guardiola has his heart set on. According to the Daily Mail in the summer, the 55-year-old told friends that it is the job he wants one day.
England timeline
The FA enquired about Guardiola's availability before hiring Thomas Tuchel. The German has a contract until the end of Euro 2028, more than 18 months away. That means Guardiola would have to bide his time or take another club job and wait for England until later in his career.
Tuchel survived calls to be sacked following the World Cup semi-final collapse to Argentina, before leading the team to the Nations League quarter-finals with an impressive group-stage campaign.
However, doubts persist over the Three Lions' ability to see off the world's best at major tournaments. Tuchel will be under immense pressure to deliver the country's first major trophy since 1966 at the next Euros, when the majority of matches will be staged on English soil. If he doesn't, a refreshed Guardiola could be in position to take the reins.
City's financial case
While his appointment would be welcomed by many, some believe there is a shadow over his success at City after the club were found guilty of breaching 114 financial rules.
The club, who have always denied any wrongdoing, have appealed against the independent commission's decision. With the appeal outcome and/or sanctions unknown, the Premier League season resumes next weekend.
City will look to arrest a run of three successive league defeats when they host improving Fulham on Saturday.
