PEP GUARDIOLA’s rumoured move to Juventus was fuelled by the Italian champions, football expert Guillem Balague has suggested.
Astonishing reports emerged from Italy earlier this week claiming that Pep Guardiola will join Juventus this summeron a four-year deal.
The report surfaced after Guardiola had led Manchester City to English football’s first domestic treble, before which the Spanish coach had confirmed he would not be joining The Old Lady.
The article also stated that Guardiola will be confirmed as the new manager on June 4 with his official unveiling taking place on June 14.
City board member Alberto Galassi responded to the claims on Friday, branding them “codswallop” and stating the revered coach will stay at Etihad Stadium, where his contract runs until 2021
Balague has published an extensive biography on Guardiola and revealed a conspiracy theory about the links in his latest YouTube video.
“Honestly, it would be interesting to find out where the stories about Pep going to Juventus come from,” the Spanish journalist said.
“That includes the dates; the announcement on June 4, and the presentation on June 14. Even a press agency told the story.
“When all the stories have got so much detail, including a four-year deal, in my eyes it suggests, number one, that the club is behind it.
“For whatever reason. The value of their shares have gone up five per cent - maybe that’s the reason.”
Juventus are seeking a manager for next season with Massimiliano Allegri leaving the club after five years in Turin.
“Meanwhile, I don’t think they’ve got anything confirmed yet in terms of managers,” Balague added.
“Is this to try to distract the attention? Whatever the reason, there’s a lot of detail on this one.
“There’s a lot of people putting the weight on it.
“Of course, at that point, I started making calls - 10 messages and calls to everyone that matters, related to it.
“And they all said it’s not happening.”
