Pep Guardiola put Chelsea on high alert after admitting he would be open to offers this summer.
Guardiola had revealed he would resign from Barcelona earlier this month, citing his need to take a break. The Spaniard, who achieved unprecedented success with the Catalan club, had intimated he would take a year's sabbatical.
However, during the pre-match press conference for the King's Cup final against Athletic Bilbao, Guardiola admitted he would be ready for a comeback as soon as next season. "For the next month, I have to charge my batteries. I will rest and I will wait. I will be ready if one club wants me, if they seduce me, I will train again."
Guardiola won three straight league titles with Barcelona while also clinching Champions League titles in 2009 and 2011.
The club that snatched away the chance of Barcelona retaining their Champions League title, Chelsea will be the most interested by the developments. Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is a known admirer of Guardiola and will be keen to bring the Spaniard to West London. It was understood Chelsea would offer only a one-year contract to Di Matteo or any other candidate, in a bid to bring Guardiola to Chelsea for the season after that. However, with recent developments, Chelsea will be favorites to land the coveted manager.
Another team that could be interested in signing the outgoing Barcelona coach is Liverpool. The Reds are looking for a new manager after letting go of Kenny Dalglish, as the season ended with a disappointing sixth-place finish. Roberto Martinez has looked like the most likely candidate with American owners Fenway Sports Group holding talks with the Wigan Athletic boss, who is on holiday in the Caribbean, in Miami.
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan told the Guardian on Thursday: "I got a phone call and Roberto was on his way to America. He has flown to Miami and is meeting Liverpool. If it's yes to Liverpool, I will accept it and get on with life."
However, Liverpool will be keeping an eye on further developments regarding Guardiola.
