Manchester City turned Pep Guardiola down as a player

Manchester City have already failed to sign Pep Guardiola once – so the club must hope he does not hold a grudge if they target him to succeed Roberto Mancini.

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Mancini’s future at the Etihad is in doubt, and former Barca boss Guardiola is in the frame to replace him as he looks for a return to management.

But he will not have happy memories of the time he spent with City.

In 2005, Guardiola spent 10 days on trial with the club under the guidance of boss Stuart Pearce.

He was looking for a new side following a stint with Qatar outfit Al-Ahli, and travelled to England in a bid to earn a contract. Man City offered him a six-month deal – but it was not enough.

The Spaniard was looking for an 18-month contract, so he was forced to pack his bags and head away.

City were not concerned at the time – but their board will no doubt hope the experience has now been forgotten by one of the most sought-after managers in the world. Speculation over Mancini’s future will continue – and there seems little doubt Guardiola will eventually move to England.

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Source: ThePeople