The Football Association wanted Pep Guardiola. They nearly got him, too. But the most decorated active manager in football chose to stay at Manchester City, and England pivoted to Thomas Tuchel, who was officially appointed on October 16, 2024.
How England landed on Tuchel
After Gareth Southgate stepped down following Euro 2024, the FA went straight to the top of its wish list. Guardiola was the first choice, and negotiations reportedly progressed through much of 2024. He didn’t bite. Guardiola opted to remain with Manchester City, and even publicly supported Tuchel’s appointment when it was announced in October 2024.
Tuchel’s contract was structured as an 18-month deal, with his official start date set for January 1, 2025. The German manager, who previously won the Champions League with Chelsea, inherited an England squad widely considered among the most talented in the tournament’s modern era.
Guardiola eventually left Manchester City after the 2025-26 season, departing on a high note after winning the 2026 FA Cup. His confirmed exit in May 2026 immediately reignited speculation that he could finally take the England job, with betting odds linking him to the role almost overnight.
