Shankul Bhandare
Pep Guardiola has clarified that he has not dismissed the possibility of renewing his contract with Manchester City, despite his current agreement expiring next summer.
In May, Guardiola suggested that the upcoming season might be his last with the club, stating he was “closer to leaving than staying.” However, during the current pre-season tour in the United States, he indicated he is open to extending his time with Manchester City.
“When I’m leaving, I will say I’m leaving, but I didn’t say that,” Guardiola clarified before Manchester City’s friendly against Milan at Yankee Stadium in New York. “We will see what happens. But I will not rule out extending my contract. I would love to stay because I would love to stay.”
Guardiola also addressed his earlier remarks following the club’s fourth consecutive Premier League title win. “I said I had been at Man City for eight years, so I’m not here for eight more years. That’s why I said I’m closer to leaving than staying. But I didn’t say I’m leaving!”
“Nine years at the same club is an eternity,” added the manager, who has won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the club’s first Champions League since joining in 2016. “I want to be sure it’s the right decision, not just for me, but for the club and the players.”
If Guardiola stays beyond the end of the 2024-25 season, his tenure at the Etihad Stadium would surpass a decade. However, he believes his players are still giving their all. “They still run as they did eight years ago, regardless of the competition or tournament,” he said.
“It’s good to refresh, for both players and managers,” added the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager. “At the same time, we have had success, are still winning Premier Leagues, and are competing in tournaments like the Champions League. That’s how I feel right now.”
When asked about returning to the United States next summer for the proposed 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, which City have qualified for, Guardiola said, “I would love to.”
The 53-year-old also addressed ongoing speculation over goalkeeper Ederson, who has recently been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League. Having appeared uncertain over the Brazilian’s future earlier in the week, Guardiola was more forthcoming on Friday.
“I wish with the bottom of my heart Eddie will continue with us,” Guardiola said. “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 began their US tour with a 4-3 defeat to Celtic in North Carolina on Wednesday. They will also face Barcelona and Chelsea in the US before heading home for the Community Shield against Manchester United at Wembley on 10 August.
