Pep Guardiola has not ruled out signing another contract extension at Manchester City. Speaking during City's preseason tour in the U.S., the 53-year-old addressed the possibility of extending his stay at the Etihad Stadium, despite previous suggestions that he might leave when his current contract expires in 2025.
Guardiola reflected on his comments from last season, where he hinted at a potential departure. "I know maybe I was not correct to say in the right moment, when we won the Premier League, but I'm saying that I've been eight years in Man City so I'm not being here for eight more years," said Guardiola. "That's why I'm closer to leaving than staying. But I didn't say I'm leaving."
He clarified that while he hasn't committed to leaving, he hasn't ruled out staying either. "When I'm leaving, I will say I'm leaving. But I didn't say it. I will not rule it out absolutely to extend the contract. I just want to be sure it's the right decision, not just for me, for the club."
Guardiola is preparing for his ninth season as City boss, already his longest tenure as a manager after four years at Barcelona and three at Bayern Munich. Since joining City in 2016, he has enjoyed unprecedented success, winning six Premier League titles, including the last four consecutively, and the Champions League. His last contract extension was signed in November 2022, and many expected him to seek a national team job after his deal ends in 2025.
"I've not given it consideration because I haven't decided I'm leaving," Guardiola added. "When I decide, OK it's over, first of all, I will talk with my sporting director, my chairman, my CEO. That's the first. I will never do one step without my team, my club not knowing it. I'm incredibly grateful. When it happens, we will talk. When? I don't know when is the best."
Guardiola emphasized that his decision-making process will involve careful consideration and consultation with the club's leadership. "It doesn't mean to do it that way is perfect, or doing it another way is perfect. Or maybe in a few months, I will say, extend the contract. So I don't know."
In summary, Guardiola remains open to the possibility of extending his contract at Manchester City, despite previously hinting at a departure. He stresses that any decision will be made with the club's best interests in mind and in close consultation with the club's hierarchy. For now, he remains focused on preparing for the upcoming season, his ninth in charge of the team.
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