Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s future is set to be put under the microscope, following Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool departure, as he enters the final year of his contract
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has revealed he will discuss his future with the club next season, but admitted he is closer to departing.
The Catalan coach guided his side to a fourth Premier League title in succession this term, and sixth in seven seasons following their win over West Ham. Guardiola joined Man City in 2016 and after missing out on success in his debut season, has earned silverware in each subsequent year.
The 53-year-old former Bayern Munich and Barcelona boss has a year remaining on his contact, and has already spent more time in a management role at the Etihad Stadium than either of his previous clubs. Until a decision is made on his future, his possible departure will be scrutinised over in the coming months.
Following his side’s success, Guardiola was posed the question whether he could soon follow in the footsteps of Jurgen Klopp and leave the Premier League. It appears the moment is not imminent but it is one that is coming closer.
“The reality is I am closer to leaving than staying. We have talked with the club – my feeling is that I want to stay now. I will stay next season and during the season we will talk. But eight or nine years – we will see.”
Guardiola was also asked how he is able to maintain such high performance levels each year, and to continue to innovate. The City boss paid tribute to his players.
“I don’t know! Work a lot,” he said. I respect them a lot. Be humble, incredible work ethic. One game, one game, one game – you can’t think in November that you’re going to win it.
“Evolving it is not. The sport director gives me these players and I think OK what is the best position for them? We can’t play a false nine with [Erling] Haaland, we adapt the skills to the players. Not because I have an idea and every player had to do it. We adapt to the players.
“We were without [Erling] Haaland for many months, Julian [Alvarez] did an amazing job and Phil [Foden] has this talent. On the big stage, in the big moment he did. Amazing players but with Phil we have an extra thing.”
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