England, My Next Destination – Guardiola

The 44-year old announced in December that he will be leaving Bayern, and since then, has been linked with a host of English clubs including Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal.

The Spaniard said: “The reason I have not extended my contract is simple. I want to manage in the Premier League.

“I want to experience England’s stadiums and emotions. I think at my age, it is the right moment to go.

“If I were as old as Jupp Heynckes was during his last stint [at Bayern], I would have stayed,” he said. “But I am still young enough, only 44 – I want a new challenge now. My career is a long way from over.

“Three years are enough. I am not comfortable with staying at one club for 30 years. I want new restaurants, a new city, a new challenge.

“When I got to Munich, people asked, ‘Why Germany and not England?’ I want to experience the emotions there. Why England? That’s my instinct right now.”

“I’ve very happy and grateful to Bayern for the trust they’ve shown me but I need a new challenge.

“I hope he’s [Rummenigge] ok and not upset. They did all they could to keep me. It wasn’t about money, it was my decision.”

However, the Spanish coach dismissed suggestions that he has already agreed a move to a particular Premier League club.

“When I have a new club, the club will communicate that,” he added. “I have several offers from England but I haven’t signed anything yet.

“At the moment, I can’t say anything else because nothing is fixed.”

Former Real Madrid and Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti, 56, is taking over at Bayern, with Guardiola describing the Italian as a “perfect choice”.

“Coaches come and go but I think Carlo Ancelotti is a perfect choice to take over and I wish him the very best.”

Since arriving in Bayern, Guardiola has won back-to-back Bundesliga titles and looks set to claim a third this term, before waving goodbye to the Bavarian club.