Pep Guardiola Commits to Manchester City Until 2026 with Option to Extend
Pep Guardiola has solidified his future with Manchester City by signing a new contract that will keep him at the Etihad until the summer of 2026, with the possibility of an extension until 2027.
The 53-year-old manager’s previous deal was set to expire next summer, fueling speculation that he might step away from his role. However, in recent weeks, optimism grew around an extension, and the news has now been confirmed. Guardiola’s new deal ensures he will surpass a decade at the helm of the club, which he joined in 2016.
During his reign, Guardiola has guided City to an era of unprecedented success, securing six Premier League titles, four EFL Cups, two FA Cups, a Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and a Club World Cup. His tenure has already made him the longest-serving manager in the Premier League and one of the most decorated in the club’s history.
If Guardiola fulfills the full length of his new contract, he will be just two years shy of Les McDowall’s record as the longest-serving City manager in the post-war era.
The push to secure Guardiola’s future was a clear priority for Manchester City, but the decision ultimately rested with him. The manager admitted his back injury last season, which required surgery, was a factor, and he wanted to ensure he was making the right choice for himself and his family.
Guardiola has also expressed interest in coaching a national team before retiring, leading to speculation linking him to roles with Brazil and England. However, his new contract puts any international ambitions on hold until at least 2027. This timeline would still allow him to target a role ahead of the 2030 World Cup, which will be hosted in multiple countries, including Spain.
Speaking of the extension, Guardiola has previously hinted at the mutual respect between him and the club, saying, “When it’s going to happen, it’s going to happen, always for the benefit of the club.”
For now, Guardiola remains focused on maintaining Manchester City’s dominance domestically and in Europe, as his extended stay marks yet another milestone in his extraordinary managerial career.
