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Guardiola acknowledges departure plans as City prepare for future
Manchester City have initiated discussions to identify a potential successor to Pep Guardiola amid ongoing uncertainty over his long-term future at the club, the manager confirmed on Friday.
Guardiola's contract and future
The 54-year-old Spaniard, who signed a new deal in November 2024 extending his tenure until the end of the 2026-27 season, reiterated that his time at City will not last indefinitely. While he expressed enthusiasm for the team's development, he admitted the club must prepare for all eventualities.
"Sooner or later, at 75 or 76, I will quit Manchester City. I have 18 months left, and I am delighted. The club and I are well connected, but what happens next will happen," Guardiola said.
Pep Guardiola
Pressed on whether he would remain beyond this season, Guardiola remained non-committal, stating, "I am here now. Football changes quickly, whether I have 10 years or six months left on my contract."
City's succession strategy
Sources indicate that City have already begun evaluating candidates to replace Guardiola, though no names have been confirmed. The club's sporting director, Hugo Viana, who joined earlier this year, is reportedly leading the process of compiling a shortlist of potential managers.
It is also understood that prospective signings have been made aware of the possibility of Guardiola's departure at the end of the current campaign. While succession planning is standard practice for top clubs, the uncertainty surrounding Guardiola's future has intensified City's preparations.
Maresca dismisses City links
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, a former assistant to Guardiola at Manchester City, has firmly rejected suggestions that he is being considered for the role. Speaking to reporters, the Italian described the reports as "100% speculation" and insisted his focus remains solely on Chelsea.
"I have a contract here until 2029, and my attention is on this club. These stories are baseless," Maresca said.
Enzo Maresca
Maresca, who took charge of Chelsea in June 2024, also addressed recent tensions with the club's ownership and senior executives following critical remarks he made after a 2-0 win over Everton. While he confirmed ongoing communication with key figures, he declined to elaborate on the specifics of those discussions.
Chelsea's season and squad updates
Chelsea, currently fourth in the Premier League, face Newcastle on Saturday (12:30 GMT) as they aim to build on their recent form. Maresca provided a positive update on injuries, revealing that forwards Liam Delap and Estevão Willian could return earlier than expected for the upcoming match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Meanwhile, Manchester City, two points behind league leaders Arsenal, host West Ham later today (15:00 GMT) in a crucial fixture.
What's next
Guardiola is not expected to make a final decision on his future until later in the season. City's focus remains on maintaining their title challenge, while Chelsea will look to stabilize their campaign amid off-field tensions.
