Guardiola: "If We Get Relegated, I’ll Stay Here"
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, reaffirmed his commitment to the club by declaring he will remain in charge regardless of circumstances, even in the event of relegation. These statements came after he extended his contract until June 2027, a deal finalized amid the controversy surrounding the club’s 115 alleged financial irregularities under Premier League investigation.
“I said it months ago: if we get relegated, I’ll stay here. If we’re in the Fifth Division, we’ll climb back up. If we go down to the Second Division, the following year we’ll be back in the Premier League,” Guardiola stated during a press conference. He emphasized that his decision to renew was not influenced by the ongoing legal proceedings, with a verdict expected in early 2025.
The manager revealed that his decision to extend his contract was made in just two hours, driven by the support he feels within the club. “I felt I had to stay because they want me here,” he explained. He also mentioned that the team’s recent streak of four consecutive defeats across all competitions played a role in his determination to stay and turn things around.
Guardiola pointed out that his renewal aims to avoid speculation about his future next season. “I don’t want to hear talk about the ‘end of Pep’ in September. If the results aren’t good, I know I won’t stay for two more years. But I believe we deserve to continue because of what we’ve achieved in recent years,” he said.
The manager concluded by highlighting the constant pressure he and the players face to deliver results, but he expressed confidence in the work they have done. With this contract renewal, Guardiola strengthens his intent to keep City competitive, regardless of the challenges ahead.