Pep Guardiola Targets Premier League
The Premier League elite’s tug of war for Pep Guardiola’s services will intensify after the much-coveted Bayern Munich manager announced England will be his next destination.
Guardiola last month revealed he would be leaving Bayern at the end of this season, after three years, and on Tuesday confirmed his desire to work in the Premier League.
Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal could all be potential employers for the former Barcelona boss, who is yet to agree a move.
“The reason not to renew my contract with Bayern Munich, is very simple: I want to train in England’s Premier League. That’s the only reason,” Guardiola told a media conference, according to fcbayern.de.
“I have several offers, but have not yet committed myself. When I have a new club, the club will communicate that.
“At the moment, I can’t say anything else because nothing is fixed.”
Bayern wanted to keep the Spaniard, but he wants to experience the Premier League in his career.
“I need at this moment in my career a new challenge,” the 44-year-old added.
If I were 60 or 65 I would’ve stayed, but I think I am too young. I need a new challenge. It was a dream, it is a dream. I am very grateful to Bayern for this huge opportunity.”
“I’m going to give the best to the last day.” Guardiola took over from Jupp Heynckes in the summer of 2013 on a three-year contract and has won back-to-back Bundesliga crowns, as well as the DFB-Pokal, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.
That haul is almost certainly going to be added to this season, complementing an impressive trophy haul that includes, amongst others, two Champions League and three Primera Division titles from his time as Barcelona boss.
It is no wonder there is so much interest from Premier League clubs in Guardiola, with Manchester City the bookmakers’ favourites.
The Spaniard previously worked with City’s chief executive Ferran Soriano and director of football Txiki Begiristain during his time at Barca.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is said to be a great admirer of Guardiola and is on the look-out for a permanent successor to Jose Mourinho, with Guus Hiddink in interim charge at Stamford Bridge until the end of the season.
As for United, Louis van Gaal’s immediate future seems secure but the club could possibly be tempted to replace one former Bayern Munich boss with another.
Arsenal, meanwhile, will have a challenging task to replace the long-serving Arsene Wenger when the Frenchman opts to leave, with the Gunners offering a more secure option than Chelsea in the British capital.
Guardiola paid tribute to his successor and hopes to ensure a smooth transition.
“I think this is a perfect decision for the club and I wish Carlo the best,” added Guardiola, whose main target is the Champions League this season.
“I’ll continue to work here to pass Carlo the best team.”
Source: Press Associates
