Pep Guardiola has officially extended his contract with Manchester City, committing to a two-year deal that will see him remain at the club until the summer of 2026. This news puts an end to months of speculation about the 53-year-old’s future, as his previous contract was set to expire at the conclusion of the current season. Guardiola, who has managed City since 2016, expressed his gratitude and excitement about continuing his journey with the club.
Despite initially suggesting he was “closer to leaving than staying” after securing an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title last season, Guardiola decided to remain at the Etihad Stadium. Speculation about his departure intensified when it was announced that Txiki Begiristain, City’s director of football and a close friend of Guardiola, would be stepping down at the end of the season. Sporting Lisbon's Hugo Viana has been named as Begiristain's successor.
Reports earlier this week suggested that Guardiola had agreed to a one-year extension with an additional year option. However, the club confirmed that he has committed to a full two-year contract, extending his tenure to over a decade. Guardiola has already established himself as one of football’s greatest managers, having transformed City into a dominant force both domestically and in Europe.
Speaking to Manchester City’s official website, Guardiola shared his reasons for staying. “This is my ninth season here, and we’ve had so many incredible moments together. Manchester City is very special to me, and I’m delighted to stay for another two years,” he said. He expressed his appreciation for the trust and support he receives from the club’s hierarchy, players, and fans, emphasizing his desire to build on their successes by winning more trophies.
Guardiola admitted that the decision to stay was based on a feeling that his work at City is not yet complete. He reflected on his time at the club, acknowledging that his longevity is a testament to their success. “You don’t stay in one place for 11 years unless you’re winning. This is a results business, and I know that. I love my job, the club, and being part of this team,” he added.
City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak expressed his delight at Guardiola’s decision to extend his stay. He praised Guardiola’s relentless hunger for success and his ability to shape the culture and identity of the club. Under Guardiola, Manchester City have won 18 trophies, including six Premier League titles in seven seasons and their first-ever Champions League crown in 2023.
Guardiola’s tenure has been marked by record-breaking achievements. His 2017-18 team remains the only one to achieve 100 points in a Premier League season, and the following year, City became the first English side to win all four domestic trophies in a single campaign. Guardiola’s innovative approach has influenced not only his team but also the wider footballing world.
With a remarkable win percentage of 72% and an average of 2.45 goals per game during his time at City, Guardiola’s impact has been transformative. His decision to stay signals his commitment to continuing the club’s dominance and further enhancing their legacy. Guardiola will provide more insight into his extension during Friday’s press conference ahead of City’s match against Tottenham.
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