Pep Guardiola’s future at Manchester City remains in question as the club faces the looming consequences of their 115 financial breaches charged by the Premier League. However, reports suggest that Guardiola may be more inclined to extend his stay at the Etihad, especially if the club faces severe punishment.
The Premier League is set to make a decision on City’s alleged financial misconduct before the end of 2024, with potential outcomes ranging from a points deduction to, in the worst-case scenario, relegation. Such penalties have sparked speculation about Guardiola’s future, given his contract is due to expire at the end of this season. But, according to The Athletic, instead of walking away, the Spanish manager might choose to stay out of “defiance,” driven by his attachment to the club he has grown to love.
The report highlights that Guardiola’s final decision is expected in the coming weeks, raising the possibility of him completing a full decade at the helm of City. Should he decide to leave next summer, he would reportedly give the club enough time to find a suitable replacement—much like Jurgen Klopp’s exit strategy at Liverpool.
Guardiola has been City’s most successful manager, winning six Premier League titles, four Carabao Cups, two FA Cups, and a Champions League since his arrival in 2016. His loyalty to the club during a time of potential crisis could further cement his legacy. Speaking recently about his future, Guardiola remained undecided, stating: “Leaving City? It’s not true, I haven’t decided yet. And it is not even true that I will be the next England coach. If I had decided, I would say it… I don’t know either, anything can happen.”
There are also rumors linking Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim as a possible successor if Guardiola opts to step down, but for now, his decision remains open.
