Channeling Arnold Schwarzenegger, former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola told the world’s media on Monday that he will return to management but refused to discuss specific clubs.
Guardiola was at the FIFA Ballon d’Or gala in Zurich and in a press conference about his Coach of the Year nomination, Guardiola put Chelsea, Man City and Man United on alert with these comments:
“Next year I will train, but I do not know where,” said the 41-year-old. “I have no team. Bayern Munich? They have Jupp Heynckes and it would be disrespectful to talk about a club that has a Coach. Again, I’ve made the decision to work, but no decision on where that will be.”
Guardiola was asked about the rumours that linked him with Brazil before Luis Felipe Scolari got the job.
“They’re a country that’s achieved so much in the world so it’s an honour but I always think the Coach of a country should be from that country. Brazil have great coaches and Scolari is the best example of that. They’re undoubtedly a candidate to win the World Cup, even more so because it’s being played at home.”
The former Barca midfielder revealed he had been keeping an eye on the Blaugrana since passing the reins to former assistant Tito Vilanova.
“Seeing Barca play is still a great show. I was lucky to be at this club, and the best gift is that they are the same or perhaps even better. There is a legacy there of many people and I was part of it, fortunately. I led a great group of players. I am pleased the club remains an example.”
It promises to be a fascinating six months as Chelsea, Man City, Man United and possibly AC Milan all jockey to land the best coach in the world.
Where do you think Guardiola will end up?
