Pep Guardiola’s name unexpectedly entered the race for the Trabzonspor managerial role after unverified accounts and reports circulated news of a massive offer submitted by the Turkish club to the Spanish coach.
However, sources close to the club have ruled out any real negotiations, confirming that Trabzonspor’s management has no plans to hire the former Manchester City manager. Consequently, claims regarding a massive annual salary reaching €13 million remain strictly within the realm of rumors.
The story originated from a report attributed to the website IndyKaila before spreading across Turkish press and social media platforms, without any official announcement from Trabzonspor or comment from Guardiola and his representatives.
The manager’s personal circumstances make such a deal highly improbable; Guardiola recently concluded a grueling ten-year tenure in the Premier League and decided to take a sabbatical to spend time with his family following severe exhaustion and a previous back surgery.
Guardiola also recently turned down a serious offer to manage the Italian national team despite finding the project appealing. Italian reports confirmed his decision was not financial, but rather rooted in his need to step away temporarily and recharge his energy.
The Catalan coach has previously expressed interest in managing a national team, making a international role after his break far more realistic than a quick move to Trabzonspor mid-season.
Beyond the Guardiola pipe dream, Steven Gerrard and Vítor Pereira have emerged among the realistic options; Gerrard is seeking a return following his stint with Al-Ettifaq, while Pereira knows Turkish football well from his two previous spells with Fenerbahçe.
Stefano Pioli has also joined the shortlist, with talks of a potential meeting with his representatives, alongside Sérgio Conceição and Marcelino. Thus, Trabzonspor’s actual appointment is expected to come from this group rather than the rumors tied to Guardiola.
