Pep Guardiola has dismissed speculation suggesting he could leave Manchester City F.C. at the end of the season, insisting he remains focused on his role at the club despite mounting reports linking him with a possible exit.
Reports surfaced on Tuesday, May 18, claiming City had begun internal discussions regarding Guardiola’s potential departure following Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa F.C.. Former assistant coach Enzo Maresca was also reported to be the leading candidate to succeed him.
Speaking ahead of City’s away match against AFC Bournemouth, Guardiola downplayed the rumours and reiterated that he still has a year remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
“So many times, I have one more year,” the Spaniard said when questioned about his future. He also rejected suggestions that the current run of matches could serve as a farewell tour, adding: “I am here, I have a contract.”
Guardiola was further asked about reports that Manchester City could honour him by naming the club’s newly expanded North Stand after him if he leaves this summer. The City manager dismissed the idea, saying he had no knowledge of such plans and insisting the club did not need to do anything special for him.
Since joining City in 2016, Guardiola has overseen one of the most successful periods in the club’s history, winning six Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League trophy, three FA Cups and five League Cups.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Guardiola could still end the season with another league title after already guiding City to FA Cup and Carabao Cup triumphs this campaign.
