Pep Guardiola Hints at Extended contact and Stay at Manchester City
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has sent shockwaves through the footballing world by suggesting he may extend his current contract.
This comes after he appeared to hint earlier this year that his time at the club may be coming to an end.
During Manchester City’s pre-season tour of the United States, Guardiola addressed rumors surrounding his future. Ahead of Man City’s friendly against AC Milan at New York’s Yankee Stadium, he said:
“When I’m leaving, I’m going to say I’m leaving, but I didn’t say it. We will see what happens. But I absolutely do not rule out a contract extension. I would like to stay because I would like to stay.”
Guardiola’s comments came after he initially caused a stir by saying he was “closer to leaving than staying” following Manchester City’s fourth Premier League title win. He explained that his remarks were about his long tenure rather than his immediate departure.
“I said I was at Man City for eight years. So I’m not here for another eight years. So that’s why I’m closer to leaving than staying. But I didn’t say I was leaving!”
The manager, who joined Man City in 2016, has led the club to remarkable success, including 6 Premier League titles, 2 FA Cups and their first UEFA Champions League trophy. He stressed the importance of ensuring that any decision on his future benefits the club and its players. Guardiola further added:
“I want to make sure it’s the right decision. Not just for me, for the club, for the players.”
Guardiola’s commitment and future plans
Pep Guardiola expressed satisfaction with the team’s effort and enthusiasm, stating,
“They keep running like they’ve been running for eight years, no matter the competition, no matter the tournament. It’s a good refresher for players and managers.”
As for the upcoming season and beyond, Pep Guardiola expressed his interest in participating in the proposed 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, saying: “I would love to.
He also addressed the rumors surrounding goalkeeper Ederson, who has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League. Pep Guardiola was clear about his desire to keep Ederson at the club, stating:
“I wish with all my heart that Eddie would continue with us. I would like him to stay. I can’t imagine our processes succeeding in recent seasons without him. He is an important figure in the dressing room.”
Manchester City opened their US tour with a thrilling 4-3 defeat against Celtic in North Carolina. They face FC Barcelona and Chelsea before returning to the UK for the Community Shield against Manchester United at Wembley on August 10.
Guardiola’s future at Manchester City remains uncertain, but his latest comments suggest that the club’s fans may have the opportunity to enjoy his managerial brilliance for longer than initially anticipated.
