Pep Guardiola denies Man City departure rumors

Pep Guardiola has hinted at the possibility of extending his stay at Manchester City beyond the end of the current season. Despite his contract expiring at the end of the coming campaign, Guardiola clarified in a press conference in New York that he has not definitively decided to leave. He expressed a desire to assess the season’s progress and his connection with the team before making a final decision.

🚨🔵 Pep Guardiola: “I am NOT ruling out absolutely that I sign a new contract at City”.

“I said I am closer to leaving than leaving City… but I did not say I am leaving City!”.

“I want to be sure it’s the right decision not just for me but for the players”, says via @SamLee. pic.twitter.com/IX9wv5oDtg

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 26, 2024

More on this topic:

Brighton hands Man City and Pep fourth consecutive defeat

Guardiola, who has been with Manchester City for eight seasons, has achieved significant success, including six Premier League titles and a total of 17 trophies. His comments come after previously raising doubts about his future following City’s historic fourth successive Premier League title.

Speaking ahead of City’s pre-season match against AC Milan at Yankee Stadium, Guardiola emphasized the importance of making the right decision for both the club and the players. He stated, “Nine years at the same club is an eternity. I don’t rule out extending the contract. I want to be sure it is the right decision for the club and the players.”

Guardiola also expressed a desire to be in charge for the expanded 32-team Club World Cup, set to be held in the United States next summer, despite uncertainties about the tournament due to disputes between FIFA and major players’ unions. He acknowledged the potential challenges of a demanding season, which could see City play up to 75 matches, starting with the Community Shield against Manchester United on August 10 and possibly culminating in the Club World Cup final on July 13.