Sven-Goran Eriksson Names Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp as Top Contenders to Replace Gareth Southgate
The English football scene has been left reeling after Gareth Southgate’s shock resignation as England manager, just two days after their heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain. As the search for a new gaffer begins, former England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson has thrown his hat into the ring, backing Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp as the top contenders to take the reins.
In an exclusive interview, Eriksson, who became the first foreign manager of England back in 2001, emphasized that it’s time for the Three Lions to aim high and appoint one of the best managers in the world. "If you want to aim high, the obvious two contenders are Jurgen Klopp or Pep Guardiola. They know English football, the players, and culture. If there was even the slightest suggestion they were interested in the job," he said.
The 76-year-old Swedish coach also highlighted the importance of experience, stating that both Klopp and Guardiola have a deep understanding of the English game, having managed in the Premier League. "Klopp is taking a break, and I’m not sure whether stepping down from Manchester City is in Pep’s mind. But you have to aim high, and appointing either of those two would be a huge statement for England and their aims for the future," he added.
For those who may be unaware, both Klopp and Guardiola have a wealth of experience in the English top flight. Klopp enjoyed a legendary spell at Liverpool, guiding the Reds to a Champions League title and several domestic trophies. Guardiola, on the other hand, has been in charge of Manchester City since 2016, winning four league titles and guiding the team to numerous domestic and international honors.
However, the Football Association (FA) is believed to be keen on appointing a home-grown manager, with under-21 boss Lee Carsley, who has been part of the national team’s youth set-up since 2018, being touted as a potential candidate. If Carsley were to get the nod, he would mirror the appointment of Southgate, who was promoted from the under-21s to the senior team.
What do you think, 90min fans? Should England aim high and appoint one of the world’s top managers, or stick with a home-grown candidate? Let us know in the comments!
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