Pep Guardiola Had Key Reservations Before Agreeing to New Man City Contract

Pep Guardiola took his time before committing to a new Manchester City contract, largely due to the discomfort of a painful back injury he has been managing.

The Spaniard now looks set to end the prolonged uncertainty over his future by signing a new deal, reportedly a one-year extension to his current contract, which is set to expire next summer. The agreement is expected to include an option for an additional year, potentially keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until 2027. Should he fulfill the full term, Guardiola would mark a decade in charge of the club.

Although City were eager for their manager to extend his stay, Guardiola had reservations that delayed his decision. According to the Manchester Evening News, the 53-year-old has been in significant discomfort since undergoing surgery for a back problem earlier in the year. Additionally, he wanted to ensure that continuing with City was the right decision for both himself and his family.

Guardiola has also expressed an interest in managing an international team later in his career. Reflecting on his future during the summer, he stated:
"I want to be sure it’s the right decision, not just for me but for the club and the players. If they continue to run like they have for eight years, in every competition, that’s what I have to see. When I said I would love to stay, it’s because I would love to stay. But I need to evaluate my feelings and watch my players."

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City’s players have reportedly shown their support for Guardiola to remain at the helm, with defender Joško Gvardiol among those backing his manager. Speaking about Guardiola, the Croatian star said:
"Pep is always passionate and focused.

“He's constantly innovating and motivating us. We would all love for him to stay longer because he brings out the best in us and has built something special here. Working under Pep is so rewarding.

“He constantly pushes us to reach our full potential and be perfect in every aspect of our game. His high standards and incredible attention to detail have helped me grow as a player and as a person.”

Guardiola is set to receive a warm reception this weekend as Manchester City continue their quest for a fifth consecutive Premier League title. The reigning champions will face Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday evening.