England secured qualification for the tournament in North America with minimal difficulty, and manager Thomas Tuchel’s squad will compete in Group L alongside Ghana, Croatia and Panama.
Speaking about the leading contenders for the title, Guardiola noted that the usual powerhouses remain favourites but singled out England as a team he hopes to see among them. Quoted by Sky Sports, he said: “The same ones. Everybody knows. We will be in agreement about the candidates if we name the same four or five candidates. I would like England to be there.
“I don’t want to pretend to be too nice, but I’ve been here for many years and been part of the country. I would love Thomas and the people to make the last step and do it.”
Guardiola’s remarks add to the rising expectations surrounding England, who have reached the latter stages of recent major tournaments but are still seeking a first World Cup triumph since 1966.