Pep Guardiola has sparked fresh speculation about his future at Manchester City.
Speaking during the club’s pre-season tour in the US, Guardiola indicated that he might extend his tenure beyond his current contract.
This comes after earlier suggestions that he was planning to leave.
The Spaniard, who has led City to unprecedented success, emphasized that no final decision has been made.
Guardiola’s contract expires in 12 months time 👀
Read more: https://t.co/SWc6eMlQHJ pic.twitter.com/HfMlgJvhwE
— FootballJOE (@FootballJOE) July 18, 2024
Pep Guardiola has managed Manchester City for eight seasons, winning 17 trophies, including four successive Premier League titles.
During the pre-season tour in the US, he said, “I didn’t say I’m leaving!” This statement follows earlier hints of his possible departure.
City’s success under Guardiola includes a Treble in 2023 and a historic fourth Premier League title in 2024.
Speaking ahead of a friendly against AC Milan, he stated, “I would love to stay because I would love to stay.”
“When I decide, I will talk with my CEO and sporting director,” Guardiola added, emphasizing the importance of the right decision for himself and the club.
Despite being at City for nearly a decade, he feels it might be beneficial to refresh the squad and management.
🗣 Pep Guardiola:
“When I’m leaving, I will say I’m leaving, but I didn’t say it. I’m not ruling it out absolutely to extend my contract. I would love to stay.”
pic.twitter.com/DVISh0C3kl— Manchestericonic (@manchestriconic) July 27, 2024
Guardiola highlighted the ongoing enthusiasm of his players, saying, “Still they run like they ran for eight years, it doesn’t matter the competition.”
Erling Haaland, who captained the side in their recent 4-3 loss to Celtic, noted the physical toll of a busy schedule, stating, “It is difficult to be sharp if you play 70 games a year.”
Guardiola’s management strategy includes allowing players who participated in international tournaments to choose when they return to training.
Manchester City’s pre-season includes matches against AC Milan, Barcelona, and Chelsea, before facing Manchester United in the Community Shield on 10 August.
