Pep Guardiola has sparked speculation about his future at Manchester City by suggesting he might stay beyond his current contract, which expires next summer.
This comes after he seemed to hint earlier this year that his time at the club might be nearing its end.
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What did Pep Guardiola say ahead of AC Milan friendly?
During Manchester City's pre-season tour in the United States, Guardiola addressed the rumours surrounding his future. Speaking ahead of City's friendly against AC Milan at New York's Yankee Stadium, he said,
“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 comments came after he initially caused a stir by stating he was “closer to leaving than staying” following Manchester City’s fourth consecutive Premier League title win. He explained that his remarks were more about his lengthy tenure 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!”
The manager, who joined City in 2016, has led the club to remarkable success, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and their first Champions League trophy. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that any decision about his future benefits the club and its players. Guardiola further added:
“I want to be sure it’s the right decision. Not just for me, for the club, for the players.”
Guardiola’s Commitment and Future Plans
Guardiola expressed his satisfaction with the team's effort and enthusiasm, stating,
“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.”
As for the upcoming season and beyond, Guardiola showed interest in participating in the proposed 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, saying, “I would love to.”
He also addressed the rumours surrounding goalkeeper Ederson, who has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League. Guardiola was clear in his desire to keep Ederson at the club, stating,
“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 began their US tour with a thrilling 4-3 defeat to Celtic in North Carolina. They are set to face Barcelona and Chelsea before returning to the UK for the Community Shield against Manchester United at Wembley on August 10th.
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