Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has hinted that he might remain with the club beyond the end of the season, despite previous remarks suggesting otherwise. Guardiola’s current contract is set to expire at the conclusion of this campaign.
Following Manchester City’s historic achievement of winning a fourth consecutive Premier League title, Guardiola sparked speculation about his future by stating he was “closer to leaving than staying.” However, during a press conference in New York ahead of City’s pre-season match against AC Milan at Yankee Stadium, Guardiola clarified that no decision had been made yet.
Guardiola’s Future Plans
“I didn’t say I was leaving,” Guardiola remarked. “Nine years at the same club is an eternity. I don’t rule out extending the contract. I want to be sure it is the right decision for the club and the players.”
He further explained, “When I decide, I will talk with my CEO and sporting director. But I want to start the season, look at how everything is going, and how connected we are. After, we will see.”
Upcoming Challenges
Guardiola expressed a desire to lead Manchester City in the expanded 32-team Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States next summer. However, he also acknowledged the ongoing dispute between FIFA and major players’ unions regarding the tournament.
Manchester City faces the possibility of playing up to 75 matches this season, beginning with the Community Shield against Manchester United at Wembley on August 10, and potentially culminating in the Club World Cup final in the U.S. on July 13.
Erling Haaland’s Concerns
City striker Erling Haaland raised concerns about the demanding schedule, stating, “It is difficult to be sharp if you play 70 games a year. You could see at the Euros how tired people will be. Some will get a lot of vacation. You have to work with the people around you to be the best version of yourself.”
Despite Haaland’s concerns, Guardiola seemed unsympathetic to the Norwegian star’s complaints.
Guardiola’s Approach to Player Fatigue
Guardiola has allowed City players involved in the Copa America and Euro 2024 latter stages to decide when they return to pre-season training, aiming to avoid exhaustion. Notably, Norway, Haaland’s national team, did not qualify for the Euros, which prompted Guardiola to comment, “Has to rest more. If he is tired, go to bed early. Tired is an excuse.”
Credit: BBC Sport
