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Pep Guardiola has raised questions about his future at Manchester City by indicating that he may stay on beyond his current contract, which ends next summer. This follows earlier suggestions indicating a potential departure from the club.
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Pep Guardiola’s Statements before AC Milan Friendly
While on Manchester City’s pre-season tour in the United States, Guardiola commented on speculations about his future. Before City’s friendly match against AC Milan at New York’s Yankee Stadium, he remarked,
“When I’m leaving, I will say I’m leaving, but I didn’t say that. We will see what happens. But I will not rule it out absolutely to extend my contract. I would love to stay because I would love to stay.”
Guardiola’s recent remarks followed a previous statement where he mentioned being “closer to leaving than staying” after Manchester City clinched their fourth consecutive Premier League title. He clarified that his comments focused more on his long tenure at the club rather than an immediate departure.
“[I was] saying that I [had] been eight years in Man City. So I’m not here for eight more years. So that’s why I’m closer to leaving than staying. But I didn’t say I’m leaving!”
Since joining City in 2016, Guardiola has guided the team to significant triumphs, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and their inaugural Champions League victory. He stressed the importance of ensuring that any decision regarding his future aligns with the club’s and players’ interests.
“I want to be sure it’s the right decision. Not just for me, for the club, for the players.”
Guardiola’s Dedication and Future Aspirations
Guardiola expressed contentment with the team’s dedication and energy, mentioning,
“Still they run like they ran for eight years, it doesn’t matter the competition, it doesn’t matter the tournament. It’s good to refresh, for players and managers.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming season and beyond, Guardiola voiced interest in the proposed 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, stating, “I would love to.”
Addressing speculations around goalkeeper Ederson’s future, Guardiola affirmed his desire to retain Ederson at the club, emphasizing his significance to the team’s recent successes.
“I wish with the bottom of my heart Eddie will continue with us. I would love him to stay. I cannot imagine our processes succeeding these last seasons without him. He is an important figure in the locker room.”
Manchester City kicked off their US tour with an action-packed 4-3 loss to Celtic in North Carolina. They are scheduled to play against Barcelona and Chelsea before heading back to the UK for the Community Shield clash against Manchester United at Wembley on August 10th.
