Pep Guardiola is believed to have reluctantly signed a contract extension with Manchester City.
Image credit: Fabrizio Romano
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly unsettled at the Etihad Stadium following his team’s disappointing Champions League exit at the hands of Real Madrid.
The Spanish coach, who had been considering leaving City in the summer of 2025, surprisingly extended his contract until 2027—but new claims suggest he did so reluctantly.
Champions League Heartbreak and Premier League Struggles
City’s hopes of retaining their European crown were crushed by Real Madrid, who sealed a 3-1 victory in the second leg after City’s dramatic 3-2 loss in England.
This defeat, coupled with the club’s inconsistent Premier League form, has left the reigning champions in a state of uncertainty.
Guardiola’s England Job Aspirations
According to reports from Spanish journalist Josep Pedrerol, Guardiola had his sights set on managing the England national team but was unable to secure the role, which has since gone to Thomas Tuchel.
Instead, he found himself “forced” to sign a new contract with City.
“Guardiola did not think about Manchester City last summer,” Josep Pedrerol claimed on El Chiringuito. “He was thinking about the England national team.
“It’s an extension that he didn’t want. It was involuntary, almost forced. He signed because it was the only thing he had. He wants to leave Manchester.”
Guardiola’s recent behavior has fueled speculation about his discontent.
After a chaotic 3-3 Champions League draw against Feyenoord earlier in the season, he appeared in his post-match interview with visible stress marks on his forehead.
What’s Next for Guardiola?
With City now out of Europe and facing an uphill battle in the Premier League, questions about Guardiola’s long-term future remain.
While his contract suggests he will stay until 2027, his desire to move on could lead to further uncertainty at the Etihad in the coming months.
For now, City fans will be hoping their manager can turn things around—but if reports are true, Guardiola’s time in Manchester may be coming to an unexpected end.