As Pep Guardiola approaches a decade at Manchester City, speculation continues about what lies ahead for the celebrated Spaniard once his time at the Etihad comes to an end. While Guardiola recently signed a two-year contract extension to take him through to 2027, former City star David Silva believes he already knows the next step in his compatriot’s managerial journey.
Silva envisions Guardiola as Spain boss
David Silva, who played under Pep Guardiola between 2016 and 2020, has suggested that the legendary manager could make the transition to international football, specifically taking over the Spain national team from current coach Luis de la Fuente in the future.
“I'd like to see him as Spain's manager. Luis de la Fuente is doing a phenomenal job now, but it would be good to have Pep in the future,” Silva said.
“He could bring a style of football based on good ball control and always going out to win games. A bit like the philosophy of the current Spanish national team.”
Silva’s endorsement highlights Guardiola’s long-standing reputation for implementing a possession-based, attacking style that could align seamlessly with Spain’s traditional footballing philosophy. The former midfielder’s perspective underscores the belief that Pep Guardiola’s tactical acumen could elevate La Roja on the international stage.
Pep Guardiola’s current City tenure
Guardiola’s continued commitment to Manchester City has seen highs and lows. Despite some struggles in the 2024/25 season—including a third-place Premier League finish and a trophyless campaign—he remains backed by the club, having overseen key transfers such as Omar Marmoush, Nico Gonzalez, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and Gianluigi Donnarumma across the 2025 transfer windows.
The City boss himself has spoken about his satisfaction at the Etihad and the possibility of extending his stay beyond his current contract.
“I have two more years, maybe I'll extend two more years. So the question is when I will stop in this year or in two years, or in four years, I will take a break. But now I feel fine, I would say,” Guardiola told Men in Blazers in August.
Spain’s current trajectory under de la Fuente
Luis de la Fuente, who led Spain to Euro 2024 glory with a 2-1 win over England in the final, recently signed a contract extension through Euro 2028. The European champions have made a strong start to World Cup 2026 qualification, winning their opening two matches convincingly while scoring nine goals. Silva’s vision imagines Pep Guardiola stepping into a side already rich in talent and pedigree, bringing his hallmark style of ball control and tactical innovation.