Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola remains resolute in his decision to extend his stay at the club, even as his team grapples with an uncharacteristically rough patch.
Pep Guardiola Unshaken Amidst Struggles: “No Regrets” Over Contract Extension
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated clash with Manchester United, Guardiola dismissed any notion of regret over signing a two-year contract extension last month. The deal keeps the Spaniard tied to the Etihad Stadium until 2027, despite City’s recent struggles.
Since the announcement, the reigning Premier League champions have secured just one win in six matches across all competitions. They now sit fifth in the league table with 27 points, nine adrift of leaders Liverpool.
Adding to their woes, City has been eliminated from the FA Cup and finds itself precariously positioned in the Champions League after a 2-0 defeat to Juventus.
Despite the challenges, Guardiola, who has led the club to an unprecedented 18 trophies since arriving in 2016, says he remains committed to the project.
“Absolutely not,” he said when asked if he regretted the timing of his extension.
“I couldn’t leave the club in this situation. It’s impossible. They might sack me, but leaving of my own accord? Never.”
The 53-year-old coach, who steered City to a historic treble last season, including their first-ever Champions League title, acknowledged the toll recent performances have taken on him. Yet, his belief in the club’s long-term vision remains steadfast.
“What we’ve achieved will always be there—our style, our numbers, everything we’ve built. But I feel a responsibility to stay and help us find our way again,” he said.
Guardiola admitted that no manager’s tenure is indefinite but emphasized the faith City’s hierarchy has shown in him.
“At some clubs, losing a few games might mean the end. Here, the club understands the bigger picture.”
As City prepares for the derby, Guardiola’s resolve shines as a beacon of leadership in challenging times, reaffirming his commitment to the club and its ambitions to remain at the pinnacle of world football.