Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario has claimed that the five-time FIFA World Cup champions wanted to hire Pep Guardiola, but he said no to the job.
Ronaldo Speaks After Shock World Cup Exit
Following a disappointing end to their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign in Qatar, Brazil are now on the quest for a new national team manager.
The Selecao suffered an agonising tournament exit when they were beaten by 2018 FIFA World Cup finalists Croatia on penalties in their quarter-final clash last Friday.
After the loss, 61-year-old head coach Tite stepped down from his position, and now according to two-time Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo, Guardiola was considered to take over as Brazil next manager, but the Spaniard instead wanted to stay with reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.
"There was interest in Guardiola, it was discussed with Guardiola's coaching staff, but he preferred to renew the contract with Manchester City," Nazario told Catalan media outlet TV3CAT.
"It might be difficult for the CBF to reach an agreement, he is the highest-paid coach in the world."
In November, 51-year-old Guardiola decided to sign a new two-year-deal with the Citizens. The contract extension means that the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss will now stay at the Etihad Stadium until 2025, making it extremely unlikely that the former midfielder will take the reins at the South American giants any time soon.
Dutch Star 'Disappointed' After Heated Altercation With Messi
City will return to competitive football action soon as Guardiola prepares his side to host Liverpool on 22 December in the Carabao Cup.
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