Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has firmly dismissed ongoing speculation about his future at the Etihad Stadium, insisting no talks have taken place regarding a potential departure next summer.
Guardiola Shuts Down Exit Speculation
The 54-year-old Catalan coach addressed the rumours directly ahead of City's crucial Premier League clash with West Ham United this Saturday. Reports had suggested Guardiola could be ready to end his trophy-laden tenure, with Chelsea's Enzo Maresca named as a leading candidate on the club's contingency list.
"There are no discussions - end of the story," Guardiola stated emphatically. "I will not be here forever, I have said that before. None of us will be here forever in this world, but there are no discussions."
He acknowledged the inevitable nature of change in football, adding: "What has to happen, will happen, and the club has to be prepared for everything, for the players and for the directors. The club has to be prepared, but that topic is not on the table right now."
Focus Remains on the Present
Guardiola, who has 18 months remaining on his current contract, expressed his continued happiness and excitement with the team's development. He revealed that questions about his future have become a regular feature over the last three or four seasons.
"Sooner or later, when I am 75 or 76, I will leave Manchester City," he quipped. "I understand the question when a contract is nearing its end, but I have 18 months left and I am delighted, happy and excited about the team's development and being here. That is all I can say."
He stressed his immediate focus is purely on the upcoming fixtures: "Right now I am focused on West Ham and then going away for a few days with my father, that's it, then back for Nottingham [Forest] and Sunderland and Brighton and Chelsea."
On-Pitch Matters Take Priority
The immediate task for Guardiola's side is to reclaim top spot in the Premier League, which they can do for at least a few hours with a victory over West Ham. However, the manager admitted he is cautious about handing out too much praise to his players.
Following recent wins against Crystal Palace and Brentford in the Carabao Cup, Guardiola offered slight criticism of his midfielders for losing possession and their defensive work. He specifically discussed young talent Rayan, praising his impact but urging caution.
"Rayan has been very good, especially for his personality," Guardiola said. "He plays like he's in the street, but I want to push him and not give him too many compliments. We are very satisfied because his impact in the final third and his goals and assists are impressive, and we cannot forget he is very young. He has the right mentality to get better and better, but he has some things to improve."
The manager's comments underscore a club philosophy focused on constant progression, both for individuals and the team as a whole, as the season enters a critical phase.
