Pep Guardiola has stated that he has not dismissed the possibility of signing a new contract with Manchester City, as his current agreement is set to expire next summer.
The City manager suggested in May that the upcoming season might be his last with the club, mentioning he was “closer to leaving than staying.” However, during the pre-season tour in the United States, Guardiola indicated that he remains open to the idea of extending his time at the helm.
“When I decide to leave, I will announce it, but I haven’t said that yet,” Guardiola mentioned to reporters ahead of City’s friendly match against Milan at New York’s Yankee Stadium. “We will see how things unfold. I am not entirely dismissing the idea of extending my contract. I would love to continue because I truly enjoy being here.”
Guardiola also sought to clarify the comments he made after securing the club’s fourth consecutive Premier League title. “[I was] reflecting on my eight years at Man City. I’m not planning to be here for another eight years. Hence, I feel I am closer to leaving than to staying. But I never stated that I am leaving!”
“Being nine years in the same club feels like an eternity,” he added, having achieved six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the club’s maiden Champions League trophy since joining City in 2016. “I want to ensure that it’s the right choice—not just for me, but for the club and the players.”
If Guardiola remains beyond the end of the 2024-25 season, he will have spent over a decade at the Etihad Stadium. Nevertheless, he believes his players continue to give their all. “They still play with the same intensity as they did eight years ago, regardless of the competition or tournament,” he noted.
“It’s beneficial to have refreshment for both players and managers,” said the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss. “At the same time, we continue to achieve success and compete in top tournaments like the Champions League. That is my current sentiment.”
When asked if he would be interested in returning to the United States next summer for the anticipated 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, for which City has qualified, Guardiola responded: “I would be delighted.”
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The 53-year-old also spoke about the ongoing rumors regarding goalkeeper Ederson, who has recently been rumored to be moving to the Saudi Pro League. After expressing some uncertainty about the Brazilian’s future earlier in the week, Guardiola was more forthright on Friday.
“I sincerely hope that Eddie continues with us,” Guardiola asserted. “I would love for him to remain. I can’t envision our success in recent seasons without his contributions. He holds a significant presence in the locker room.”
Manchester City kicked off their US tour with a 4-3 loss to Celtic in North Carolina on Wednesday. They have upcoming matches against Barcelona and Chelsea in the US before returning home to compete in the Community Shield against Manchester United at Wembley on 10 August.
