Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his confidence in England’s ability to win Euro 2024 if they follow the path to continental glory set by his club.
Guardiola, who guided City to their first Champions League title last season, believes Gareth Southgate’s England team can achieve similar success despite past disappointments.
England were beaten in the European Championship final by Italy on penalties at Wembley in 2021, lost the World Cup semi-final against Croatia in 2018, and were beaten by France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals.
“They are really good. It’s not just the talent of the strikers, it’s the whole package, the whole group, and Gareth knows perfectly what he has to do,” Guardiola told reporters on Friday.
“So I have the feeling, everyone has the feeling, that the England national team, (from) the last events—the World Cup and European Championship – they make steps, they are on the verge, they are really close. They lost a final, got to a semi-final.
“When you arrive at these stages every two years, it’s going to happen. It’s quite similar to us, we were close, and in the end we lifted it,” Guardiola added.
Reflecting on City’s journey to Champions League success, Guardiola draws parallels with England’s situation and emphasises the importance of belief and perseverance.
“Just believe it. If they believe it, they can do it. Believe it, believe it, they can do it,” Guardiola urged.
Guardiola also praised City forward Phil Foden, who was named the Football Writers’ Association men’s Player of the Year, highlighting his potential to become one of the club’s all-time greats.
“This club has a long, long history. You can’t forget what happened with the players who played at Maine Road, like everyone knows. I think the club has been built with many, many top-quality players,” he said.
“But I have the feeling if he continues his career until the end here, and continues that level, he can be one of the best, that’s for sure.”
With Guardiola’s endorsement and Foden’s burgeoning talent, England fans will be hoping for success in Euro 2024 and beyond.