If Manchester City gets relegated, I’ll be here

A day after extending his contract with Manchester City until 2027, Pep Guardiola opened up about the factors behind his decision to remain at the helm of the four-time Premier League champions.

The Spanish manager, regarded as one of the greatest tacticians in football history, reaffirmed his commitment to the club while addressing both his recent decision and the challenges the team currently faces.

During a press conference ahead of City's home clash with Tottenham Hotspur in the 12th round of the Premier League, Guardiola reflected on the quick and straightforward nature of the contract negotiations. The extension, which adds at least two more years to his tenure, comes at a pivotal moment for the club as it navigates uncharted territory, including a rare slump in form and ongoing legal issues.

“It was a simple decision,” Guardiola stated. “Yesterday, I mentioned that I felt I should stay because they wanted me here, and for obvious reasons: the results. That’s the driving force in football. Sometimes, there are intangibles that make you feel it’s right to stay, and this was one of those moments. It took us just two hours to finalize everything.”

Guardiola also addressed why the new deal was set for two years. “Why two years? Because of timing (laughs). I don’t want to enter next season and hear, ‘It’s Pep’s last year,’ every time we play poorly or draw a game. I wanted to avoid that narrative. Two years gives clarity to the players, the staff, and the club. But I am fully aware that in football, contracts alone don’t guarantee anything. I won’t remain here if the results aren’t good.”

City’s current form adds context to Guardiola’s words. The team is experiencing a rare slump, having suffered four consecutive defeats across all competitions a first in Guardiola's illustrious career. Despite this, he expressed confidence in his and his team’s ability to bounce back. “I have a contract, but contracts don’t protect you from underperformance. If, in a month, things are still not going well, I know I might not be here. That’s the reality of this job, and I’m not naive about it. I feel we deserve to continue because of what we’ve built, but that has to be backed up by performances on the pitch.”

Beyond the immediate challenges, Guardiola touched on the broader uncertainties surrounding Manchester City due to the ongoing “Trial of the Century.” The club is under investigation for alleged financial irregularities, facing 115 charges related to breaches of Premier League regulations. Potential penalties include expulsion from competitions and relegation, which could dramatically alter the club’s trajectory.

Amid these uncertainties, Guardiola made a bold statement about his loyalty. “Six months ago, when accusations came out, I said I’d remain if we were relegated. I stand by that today. If next year we’re in the lower leagues, we’ll fight our way back to the Premier League. That’s my commitment to this club, and I’m here for the long haul.”

This public pledge aligns with Guardiola’s history of backing his team in difficult times. His belief in the club's vision and its community has been a recurring theme throughout his tenure. “The foundation of this club isn’t just about trophies or titles. It’s about building something lasting. Even if we face setbacks, I trust the people here, and I trust our ability to overcome challenges,” he emphasized.

The legal proceedings facing Manchester City are expected to extend for years, with a verdict unlikely before 2025. For now, the allegations hang over the club, influencing its perception within English and European football. However, Guardiola remains focused on the present, urging his players to respond to challenges on the pitch.

“The best way to address speculation or criticism is through football. Our job is to perform, to compete, and to keep striving for success,” Guardiola concluded.

As City prepares for the weekend’s high-profile clash against Tottenham, Guardiola’s words serve as both reassurance and a rallying cry for fans, players, and staff alike. Whether navigating a temporary dip in form or defending the club’s reputation, Guardiola has made it clear that his commitment to Manchester City remains unwavering. For supporters, his leadership offers stability and hope during a period of turbulence, with the promise that, come what may, the fight for the club’s future continues.

Meta description: Pep Guardiola reflects on his decision to extend his Manchester City contract amidst challenges on and off the pitch, including the "Trial of the Century" and rare poor form.