Manchester City are reportedly set to announce a major development in their managerial plans, as Pep Guardiola is poised to extend his stay at the Etihad Stadium. According to various sources, the Spanish tactician has reached an agreement for a new contract that will keep him in charge of the Citizens until the summer of 2026. This deal, if finalized, will extend Guardiola’s tenure to a full decade, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful managers in the club’s history.
City’s start to the current Premier League season under Guardiola had been promising, with the team winning seven out of their first nine matches. However, recent form has raised questions about their title defense. Four consecutive defeats across all competitions, including two losses in the league, have seen City slip to second place. They are now five points behind league leaders Liverpool. While these setbacks have prompted speculation about Guardiola’s future and the need for change, City’s decision to extend his contract shows their continued faith in the man who has brought unprecedented success to the club.
During his time at Manchester City, Guardiola has built a dynasty, guiding the club to six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, four League Cups, a UEFA Champions League title, a UEFA Super Cup, and a FIFA Club World Cup. His managerial brilliance and tactical acumen have not only set domestic benchmarks but have also turned City into a European powerhouse. Unsurprisingly, his achievements have led to him being linked with several prestigious managerial roles, including the England national team job before Thomas Tuchel’s appointment. More recently, reports suggested Guardiola had reached an informal agreement to become the head coach of Brazil. However, those rumors appear to have been put to rest with this new deal.
The report by *Football Insider* claims that Guardiola’s contract extension is nearly complete, with a “99% done” status after recent negotiations. An official announcement is expected imminently. Once finalized, it would represent a clear commitment from both Guardiola and the club to continue their highly successful partnership. “City fans are now set to get clarity with the 53-year-old set to extend his stay at the Etihad Stadium to ten years,” the report adds, emphasizing the significance of this extension.
Despite Guardiola’s stellar record, City’s recent struggles have highlighted some areas of concern. Chief among them is the absence of their influential midfielder, Rodri. The Spain international, who suffered a knee injury ruling him out for the remainder of the season, has been sorely missed. His absence has coincided with City’s dip in form, underscoring his importance to the team. Rodri’s contributions have not gone unnoticed on the global stage; he recently won the Ballon d’Or, an honor typically reserved for attacking players. Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit expressed his admiration for Rodri’s win, noting the rarity of a midfielder, defender, or goalkeeper claiming the prestigious award.
In an interview with *Instant Casino*, Petit remarked, “I was pleased that Rodri won the Ballon d’Or and I didn’t see that coming, because to be honest with you it’s very rare that a midfielder, defender or goalkeeper wins the Ballon d’Or. I never watch the Ballon d’Or because for me this is exactly what I don’t like in football. This is the definition of what we should not be on the pitch: individuals.”
Petit further praised Rodri’s impact on both Manchester City and the Spanish national team. “When I look at what Rodri has done for his country and his club for the last two seasons. I remember when he scored the winning goal in the Champions League final. He has been amazing for years at Manchester City. He’s running the midfield. He’s one of the best in his position, and he won a big title with his country as well.”
Although Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior was considered a favorite for the Ballon d’Or, Petit believes Rodri’s consistency and contributions to City’s success made him a deserving winner. “I know that Vinicius was probably the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or. Maybe because there were so many Real Madrid players on the shortlist, it went against him this season,” Petit said. “The most difficult thing to do in football is to score goals. We are living in a world that is based on statistics, and when I look at Rodri, he’s got statistics that Vinicius doesn’t have. So, I’m happy. I know that a lot of people are unhappy about Rodri winning it but I don’t care.”
The announcement of Guardiola’s new contract, combined with Rodri’s recent accolades, serves as a reminder of the high standards Manchester City have set in recent years. While challenges remain, including navigating a challenging season without one of their key players, the club’s commitment to Guardiola suggests they are confident in their ability to adapt, evolve, and continue to compete at the highest level. As the club prepares for the next phase under Guardiola’s leadership, City fans can look forward to more memorable moments and, potentially, more silverware in the years to come.