Gary Lineker shares his theory on Gareth Southgate's England successor

Gary Lineker has sparked speculation over Pep Guardiola's next career move, suggesting the Manchester City maestro could be eyeing the England manager's job. Following Gareth Southgate's departure following a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, Under-21 boss Lee Carsley has taken over temporarily for the upcoming Nations League matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.

As the FA search for Southgate's permanent replacement, rumours of Guardiola's interest have been circulating, particularly as he approaches the final year of his City contract. Lineker, speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, noted Guardiola's intriguing response to questions about the England job: “I saw an interview a few days ago with Pep Guardiola where he was asked in a press conference if he would be interested in England.

“And you know, most people brush that aside, but he certainly didn't. And the way he talked made me think he might be interested in this job.”

Lineker added, perhaps fuelled by a hint of hope: “And the fact that they've appointed (Lee) Carsley as interim manager and the fact that Pep's contract ends at the end of the season… though, maybe I'm deluding myself a bit here!”

Former England ace Alan Shearer said: “There's a few people or a few people who have told me that but I don't know, maybe it's just a rumour but hey, you never know, that's why I think it's a wise decision for them to give it to Carsley and take their time and see what happens.

“I mean, they have a game in a month, less? So I think it would have been really difficult to name someone in such a short period of time. So this gives them time to step back and look at the bigger picture.”

Guardiola did not rule out taking over England at the press conference mentioned by Lineker. Asked about the idea of ​​managing the national team, he said: “I have to decide what I want to do with my life. Whether I want to continue here, take a break, coach national teams or not – many things.”