3B9YFAN Southampton, UK. 10th May, 2025. Pep Guardiola, head coach of Manchester City during the Southampton vs Manchester City Premier League match at St Mary's Stadium, Southampton. Picture credit should read: Paul Terry/Sportimage Credit: Sportimage Ltd/Alamy Live News
Pep Guardiola has addressed ongoing speculation regarding his future as the manager of Manchester City, asserting that there have been no discussions about his departure. Reports this week suggested that City officials were preparing for the possibility of Guardiola leaving at the end of the season and were already considering potential successors, including Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca. Maresca, however, dismissed these claims as “100% speculation” and confirmed his commitment to Chelsea.
Guardiola recently signed a contract extension that runs until 2027, yet that has not quelled the rumors surrounding his future. During a press conference held on Friday, Guardiola was clear and concise when he stated, “There are no discussions — end of the subject.” He emphasized that while he will not remain at the club indefinitely, the topic of his departure is not currently on the agenda.
When questioned about his potential exit, Guardiola reiterated, “I’m here! What is going to happen, who knows that? Who knows?” He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of football, stating that even with a long-term contract, circumstances can change rapidly.
Guardiola further indicated that his focus remains on the immediate challenges ahead, specifically the upcoming match against West Ham. He mentioned plans to spend time with his father before returning to prepare for matches against teams such as Nottingham Forest, Sunderland, Chelsea, and Brighton.
The speculation surrounding Guardiola’s future is not new. The manager faced similar questions last year when his contract was set to expire, ultimately signing a significant extension to secure his position. His guarded responses in this latest press conference reflect the ever-changing dynamics within football, where managerial positions are frequently reassessed.
For Manchester City, the consideration of potential future managers is a standard practice, especially given the high stakes involved in top-tier football. While Guardiola’s commitment for now is clear, the club must remain prepared for any eventualities. As the season progresses, both fans and pundits will keep a keen eye on how this narrative unfolds.
