Guardiola’s Future at Manchester City in Question Amid Speculation

Despite Pep Guardiola’s contract with Manchester City extending until 2027, reports indicate that he may conclude his tenure at the Etihad Stadium at the end of the current season.

The former Bayern Munich manager has frequently faced inquiries about his future, which is becoming a source of frustration for him. He clarified that leaving is “not on the table” at present.

“For the past three or four years, I have been repeatedly asked about my future during specific periods,” he stated in December. “I recognize that sooner or later, I will leave. I may be here until I am 75 or 76 years old, but for now, I am happy and excited about the development of the team. Although I understand the question, I have 18 months remaining on my contract. I remain incredibly connected to the club, and we will make decisions together as the future unfolds.

“The issue is that there are no discussions happening. This topic is closed for now. I mentioned in my second season that I would not be here forever, and none of us will last in this role indefinitely. However, the club needs to be prepared for any eventualities, including player and leadership changes, although I do not foresee the owners deciding to sell. But for the moment, all of this is not a concern.”

Guardiola expressed irritation in response to a follow-up question regarding whether this season would be his last at City, saying, “I have already answered that question earlier! I am here. What will happen in the future? It is uncertain, regardless of whether I have a ten-year contract or a six-month one. The landscape of football changes rapidly. Right now, my focus is on West Ham, and then I will spend some time with my dad before returning to face Nottingham Forest, Sunderland, Chelsea, and Brighton in the upcoming matches.”

Following City’s disappointing loss to Manchester United, pundit Richard Keys made a bold assertion regarding Guardiola’s future, speculating that Chelsea’s recently dismissed manager, Enzo Maresca, could take over if Guardiola departs soon, or Bayern Munich’s Vincent Kompany could return to manage the team.

On beINSPORT, Keys remarked, “I believe it’s almost certain that he will leave at the end of the season. Do not discount the possibility of him departing this week. Should that occur, Maresca will be in charge for the match against Wolves.”

While fellow presenter Andy Gray laughed at the prediction, Keys maintained his stance.

After the defeat, which left Manchester City six points behind league leaders Arsenal, Guardiola acknowledged that United deserved the victory. He emphasized the importance of learning from the loss and urged his team to regroup.

He told Sky Sports, “The better team won. They were superior today, and when that happens, you must accept it. They had the energy we lacked, and I congratulate them. The goals we conceded were poor, and we did not control the game effectively. Moving forward, we must analyze the match as a whole, acknowledging that they were simply better.

“Our focus should be on how we can evolve as a team. I feel we have accomplished many good things so far this season, but sometimes stepping back is necessary for growth. The season is lengthy, and continuous analysis is essential.”

If Keys’ prediction comes true, Guardiola’s final match at Manchester City could be their Champions League encounter against Bodo/Glimt on Tuesday, with a potential absence from the touchline in the upcoming clash with Wolves next Saturday.