Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted he could return to Barcelona “for free”, but not as manager.
The Spanish technician was one of the most successful coaches in Barça’s history, leading Lionel Messi and his teammates to two La Liga titles, three Champions Leagues, two Copas del Rey, three Spanish Super Cups, two European Super Cups and two Club World Cups, including a treble in the 2008-09 season. The prospect of his return to the Camp Nou is sure to excite Barcelona fans. With Xavi determined to leave his post at the end of the season, some are even hoping he will be back this year.
However, Guardiola has made it clear that if he ever returns to Barcelona, he wants to be the ultimate manager of the club, not just a manager. His first recruit would be Aitana Bonmati as the club’s sporting director – the Spanish world champion who received the ‘Laureus Award’ for female sportswoman of the year 2023.
Guardiola president of Barça?
In the documentary “Aitana Bonmati Conca” on TV-3’s “Sense Ficcio”, Guardiola said: “ I would come for free, I would not suffer. It would not be an economic question. But here there will be a problem that I must tell you: I will be the president and I will be the one who signs you as sports director.”
Bonmati responded by saying: “ I like to be in charge and it’s sad to see that there are still few women in command positions. Maybe when you stop coaching at the age of 80…” Guardiola immediately interrupted her and replied: “Don’t worry, I don’t plan to coach until I’m 80.” We’ll see who signs who…”
