Guardiola commits to Manchester City future amid summer speculation
Pep Guardiola has moved to shut down talk of an imminent departure, confirming he expects to remain Manchester City manager next season as the club prepares for another decisive stretch of the campaign.
Speculation intensified this week amid reports City were considering contingency plans, with Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca mentioned as a possible successor. Guardiola, however, made clear that no such scenario is under discussion and that his focus remains firmly on the job in front of him.
The 53 year old will reach a decade at the Etihad Stadium next summer and is under contract until the end of the 2026-27 season. Despite the longevity of his tenure, Guardiola said there have been no talks about an early exit, stressing that both he and the club remain aligned on long-term decisions.
Speaking ahead of City’s Premier League meeting with West Ham, Guardiola struck a relaxed but decisive tone, suggesting the annual questions about his future have become routine. He reiterated his enthusiasm for the ongoing development of the squad and his enjoyment of daily work at the club.
Guardiola acknowledged that the club must always be prepared for change across players and executives but insisted that his own position is stable. He underlined that discussions about his departure are not currently taking place and dismissed the issue as settled for now.
There were no dramatic declarations or ultimatums. Instead, Guardiola delivered a clear message of continuity, confirming he will still be in charge next season and reminding observers that football can shift quickly regardless of contract length.
Attention quickly turned back to on-pitch matters as Guardiola outlined his short-term plans, including upcoming fixtures against West Ham, Nottingham Forest, Sunderland, Brighton and Chelsea. Injuries to Rodri, John Stones and Jérémy Doku continue to test City’s depth, while Omar Marmoush and Rayan Aït-Nouri are away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
City enters Saturday’s match with the opportunity, at least temporarily, to move to the top of the Premier League table. Guardiola acknowledged the challenge posed by West Ham and their quality players but insisted his side are ready to respond despite the absentees.
For now, Guardiola’s message is unmistakable. His future remains at Manchester City, his attention fixed on the immediate demands of the season, and any conversation about succession is firmly postponed until a later date.