Pep Guardiola has reiterated his happiness at Manchester City but admits he’s cautious about looking too far ahead. Despite speculation over his future, the Catalan coach remains undecided on whether he will extend his stay at the Etihad, as his current contract expires next summer.
City officials are keen to retain their most successful manager, yet they acknowledge this could be Guardiola’s final season with the club. Sources close to the 53-year-old believe he will make his decision over the winter, with his contract running until June. Guardiola has, however, hinted that he plans to lead City into next year’s Club World Cup, which will continue into mid-July.
Earlier this month, Guardiola stressed that he feels no pressure from the club to make an immediate decision. He stated, “I still need to reflect and decide what I want to do.” Now, he has emphasized that he’s not thinking long-term. When asked by Sky Sports about his contentment at City, Guardiola said, “I’m happy here. When I started as a manager, I would always look ahead. Now, I don’t. I just want to win tomorrow. I live more day-by-day.”
Guardiola is currently in his ninth season with City, having collected an impressive 18 trophies during his reign. Yet at the conclusion of last season, he sparked rumors by suggesting he was “closer to leaving than staying,” hinting that his lengthy tenure might be nearing its end.
In a recent appearance on Italian television, Guardiola clarified those remarks. “I’ve been at Man City for eight years, and I won’t be here for another eight, that’s why I said I’m closer to leaving,” he explained. “But I never said I am leaving. When I decide to go, I will say so. But for now, I haven’t made that decision.”
