Former Manchester City defender Danny Mills has laughed off claims that Pep Guardiola could be appointed as Brazil manager, questioning why he would depart his role at the Etihad Stadium.
The Spaniard is reportedly among the candidates under consideration by Brazil after the departure of Tite following the Selecao's World Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of Croatia. Reports had suggested that the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) were set to contact Guardiola regarding taking the reins having been made aware of his previous ambitions of becoming an international manager.
Mills, who spent five years on City's books, does not envisage the four-time Premier League winner making the move. Asked by Mirror Sport , on behalf of 888Sport, if Guardiola could be tempted, the former defender replied: “No, not in the slightest.
“This makes me laugh. This is a phone call where Pep answers, ‘Hello, this is Pep Guardiola’. ‘Hello, yes this is the Brazilian FA’. ‘No, thank you’.
“If it was Spain, I’d sort of maybe understand it slightly. He’s got no affinity with Brazil whatsoever. The intensity that Pep wants to work at, it’s almost impossible to put that intensity into something when you’re working with players for two or three days a month.
“We’ve seen how meticulous Pep is. The way Man City plays takes hours and hours on the training ground, day in and day out. It’s very difficult to just drop in and try and play that way at a moments’ notice from players all around the world.
Do you think Pep Guardiola could leave Manchester City for the Brazil job? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
“Why would he go? He’s got unfinished business clearly. He wants to win the Champions League. He’s got a fantastic squad. He wants to win the treble this season without a doubt. Why would he go now?”
Guardiola only reaffirmed his commitment to City in November by penning a two-year contract extension until 2025, with his previous deal set to expire in the upcoming summer.
Brazil legend Ronaldo has no doubt this would make it tough to tempt the Spaniard away from the Etihad in the near future.
As quoted by Catalunya Radio, the former striker said: "There was interest in Guardiola, it was discussed with Guardiola's coaching staff, but he preferred to renew the contract with Manchester City. It might be difficult for the CBF to reach an agreement, he is the highest-paid coach in the world."
Guardiola initially arrived at Man City in 2016 as Manuel Pellegrini’s successor. Despite a trophyless first season, the Spaniard has enjoyed a glittering stint, winning four Premier League titles, the FA Cup and a succession of EFL Cups.
Danny Mills, was speaking on behalf of 888sport. Head to 888sport for the latest sporting odds.
