Reports in France suggested that the Red Devils had a meeting in Paris with Bayern Munich manager Pep Guardiola, but Manchester United have since come out and rubbished the rumours
Manchester City have been widely tipped to win the race for Pep Guardiola, but the former FC Barcelona manager is also thought to be a target for rivals Manchester United and Chelsea FC. The Spaniard recently admitted that he could take a year off after the 2015-2016 season with Bayern Munich, and that has only served to fuel speculation that he could be considering a move to Old Trafford.
A report in France Football recently claimed that Manchester United officials had met Guardiola in Paris recently, but the Red Devils have since come out and denied the claims, according to the Guardian. Louis van Gaal is contracted to the club until 2017, and it is believed that assistant manager Ryan Giggs is being prepared to eventually take over.
Guardiola’s future is certain to be in the Premier League, with the 44-year-old announcing earlier this season (via the Guardian): “I need a new challenge and I want to use that chance to be a manager in England.
“I want to experience the atmosphere in England and I look forward to the stadiums there. I am 44 and it is the right time. There are offers but I haven’t signed for anyone yet. When I have a new club I will let everyone know.”
Manchester City overwhelming favourites for Guardiola’s signature
Guardiola has been known to take his time to make decisions, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if the former midfielder himself hasn’t fully made up his mind about which offer to accept after he ends his career at Bayern Munich.
However, Manchester City are clearly the big favourites to land Guardiola. The Txiki Begiristain and Ferran Soriano connection has been commented upon extensively, but the squad City have put together is also arguably more suited to Guardiola than Manchester United’s or Chelsea’s. Manchester United have the option of trying to lure either him or former Blues’ boss José Mourinho to the club this summer, and it will be interesting to see if they continue with Van Gaal if the Dutchman is able to turn the club’s season around.
