Pep Guardiola Wants To Stay In Manchester City

Pep Guardiola, on a pre-season tour in New York with Manchester City (photo: x @ManCity)

JAKARTA - Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has opened the possibility of extending his contract with The Citizens, which will expire next summer. Guardiola previously indicated that next season could be his final season at the Etihad Stadium. Moreover, rumors emerged, the England national team wanted him to deal with The Three Lions.

"I don't rule out the possibility of extending the contract. I really want to stay," Guardiola said in a pre-season press conference Saturday, July 27, 2024.

Guardiola, who has led City to six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and one Champions League among the rest, said he wanted to ensure the contract extension decision was taken carefully.

"Nine years at the same club is a long time. I want to make sure this is the right decision, not only for me, but also for clubs and players," he added.

He also expressed his admiration for team performance and committed to maintaining high level of performance. "We are still achieving success and continue to win the Premier League title and reach the final stages of the competition such as the Champions League," he said.

Guardiola also expressed his hope that their main goalkeeper, Ederson, would remain with City despite speculation about a possible transfer to the Saudi Pro League. "I really hope Eddie will continue with us. I can't imagine our successful process in recent seasons without him. He is an important figure in the dressing room."

On the same occasion, Guardiola also expressed interest in returning to the United States next year for the FIFA Club World Cup which is planned to be followed by 32 teams. "I really want to come back," he said.

Manchester City started their pre-season tour in the United States with a narrow 4-3 defeat to Celtic attenuation Stadium, New York.