Pep Guardiola has signed a two-year contract extension with Manchester City, committing to remain as the club’s manager until at least 2026. The 53-year-old made the announcement Thursday, stating that he could not leave the club at such a critical time, despite a challenging period both on and off the pitch.
Amidst rumors that his tenure at City might be coming to an end, especially with the club embroiled in a legal battle over 115 charges of breaching Premier League financial regulations charges that City strongly denies Guardiola admitted that recent setbacks had played a role in his decision. Currently, City is experiencing their worst run under his management, with four consecutive defeats across all competitions, though they sit second in the Premier League, five points behind leaders Liverpool.
Guardiola’s previous contract was set to expire at the end of this season, but reports on Tuesday revealed that he had decided to stay, even after Txiki Begiristain, the club’s director of football and close ally of Guardiola, confirmed his exit at the end of the campaign.
Reflecting on his decision, Guardiola said, “I felt I could not leave now, simple as that. Maybe the four defeats were the reason why, and I felt I cannot leave.” He added that he sensed the club still wanted him and that this connection was the driving force behind his decision to stay longer.
Guardiola, who took over at Manchester City in 2016, has led the club to 18 major trophies, including six Premier League titles. His last four league titles came in succession, setting a new English record. Under his leadership, City secured a historic treble in 2023, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League, alongside four consecutive League Cup triumphs from 2018 to 2021.
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In a statement following the contract extension, Guardiola expressed his deep connection with Manchester City, saying, “This is my ninth season here; we have experienced so many amazing times together. I have a really special feeling for this football club.”
Guardiola also thanked everyone involved with the club for their continued trust, including the chairman, owners, players, and fans. He emphasized his desire to add more trophies to the ones City has already won, saying, “I appreciate everything a manager could ever wish for, and I hope now we can add more trophies.”
City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak expressed his delight over Guardiola’s extended commitment, praising his dedication and innovative thinking, which have significantly shaped the club’s success and the broader landscape of football.
