Pep Guardiola Vows Loyalty Amid Financial Charges

Pep Guardiola has reiterated his commitment to Manchester City even if they face relegation due to alleged financial rule breaches. The 53-year-old manager, who recently signed a two-year contract extension until 2027 expressed his readiness to manage City in lower divisions if necessary, saying, “I will be here. If we’re relegated, we’ll come back.” City face 115 Premier League charges over financial misconduct, with potential sanctions ranging from fines to relegation.

Guardiola clarified that the financial charges did not influence his decision to extend his contract, instead highlighting his priority of addressing the team’s rare four-match losing streak. He also claimed that “75% of rival clubs” want City relegated due to behind-the-scenes rivalries but dismissed these concerns as secondary to footballing matters. Guardiola reflected on his tenure, balancing the current challenges with the pride of achieving four consecutive Premier League titles.

Addressing injury struggles, he confirmed the possible returns of defenders John Stones, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake for their upcoming clash against Tottenham, although key player Rodri remains sidelined post-knee surgery. On his contract extension, Guardiola explained the decision for a two-year term was partly to avoid mid-season speculation about his future. “I’d like to stay two more years but if results aren’t good, I won’t stay,” he admitted while expressing confidence in the club’s direction.

He credited the quick negotiation process concluding in just two hours to mutual trust with chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. Despite recent struggles, Pep Guardiola’s confidence in his players and his own leadership remains unshaken. “Maybe I am arrogant, but I think we deserve to continue for what we have done in the last years,” he stated. His focus now is on navigating injuries and reversing the team’s form.