Pep Guardiola has given a fairly in-depth interview in which he talks about the next steps in his career, which for now are taking place at Manchester City. No one doubts that the man from Sampedor is one of the best coaches in history, and it was at Barcelona where he achieved success in his early days as a professional on the bench. However, Bayern Munich and the English team have also enjoyed the characteristic passing game practiced by all the clubs he has managed in recent years, during which he has won the most important trophies in the beautiful game.
Obviously, one of the topics that came up in the interview was Manchester City’s terrible season, and Pep Guardiola did not shy away from responding to his critics. “I’m sure there are people who hope I fail. I’m happy to welcome them, it gives you energy,” said the Catalan coach. “When you win six Premier League titles, there comes a time when you go down. It’s human nature. We probably should have moved more players, but it’s very easy to say that,“ he replied, before adding that ”it hasn’t been such a bad season.”
Guardiola and retirement
In this interview with GQ, Pep Guardiola assesses what he will do once his adventure at Manchester City comes to an end, where he is under contract until June 30, 2027. Obviously, he does not rule out extending his contract with the Citizens, but everything points to him seeing out these two seasons and leaving the Etihad. “I know that after this spell with City I’m going to stop, that’s for sure, it’s decided,” began the Catalan coach. “More than decided,” added the coach who has led the British side to their first Champions League title.
“I’m going to leave after this spell with Manchester City because I need to stop and focus on myself, on my body,” said Pep Guardiola, who seems to be prioritizing his mental health. It should be remembered that after leaving Barcelona before signing with Bayern Munich, he also took a sabbatical year, but this time he is not setting a time frame for his break. “One year, two, three, five, ten, fifteen…” he replied when asked about the break he will take. “I think I knew when to stop. The same thing happened with my work at Barça, where there came a point when I said enough is enough, I’m going to look for another challenge,” added the Catalan.
Guardiola will not return to Barcelona
In the same interview, Pep Guardiola was asked about a possible return to his beloved Barcelona, but he was categorical. “It’s over. Forever. It was very nice, but it’s over,” explained the Catalan coach, who seemed more than convinced.
“Return as president? No, I’m not cut out for that,“ he replied, as it should be remembered that other former Barcelona players, such as Gerard Piqué, have on occasion considered taking their place in the Camp Nou box to preside over the Blaugrana club.
Another name that came up in the interview was Lamine Yamal and his comparison with Leo Messi. ”I think you have to let him make his own career. When he’s been playing for fifteen years, we’ll say if he’s better or worse,“ he said of the young Barcelona star who has accepted the challenge of wearing the number 10 shirt. ”The fact that they’re comparing him to Messi is a big deal. It’s like comparing a painter to Van Gogh and saying, ‘Wow, that’s not bad,’ and it’s a sign that he’s good,” explained Pep Guardiola.