EXCLUSIVE: Man City to force Guardiola OUT? Pep faces contract ultimatum

Steve Kay

• 4 Nov 2024 11:35 GMT
• 4 min read

Exclusive

Key members within Manchester City’s hierarchy believe it may be time for Pep Guardiola to move on this summer, to allow for a manager who can commit to a long-term rebuild, sources have told FootballTransfers.

While Guardiola’s legacy at City is undeniable, his uncertain future - and an ageing squad - has sparked concern that without clear direction, the club’s success could face serious challenges in the coming years.

Over the last decade, Manchester City have transformed into a dominant force, with Pep Guardiola steering the club to unparalleled success in English football. Under Guardiola, City have amassed an array of Premier League titles, domestic cups, and even secured their first Champions League trophy.

Few would argue against Guardiola’s status as one of the greatest managers in Premier League history if not the greatest.

But with the core of City’s squad now in their 30s, some board members feel the need for a manager willing to commit to a three-year plan to rebuild and keep the club competing at the highest level.

These executives are pushing for clarity on Guardiola’s future - either a renewed commitment for the next few seasons or the appointment of a successor ready to oversee a new chapter.

Man City at a crossroads

Manchester City’s recent success has been built on a group of elite, experienced players who have maintained their peak performance over many seasons. However, the advancing ages of key players present a stark reality for the club.

Midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne is now 33, Ilkay Gundogan and captain Kyle Walker are both 34, and even goalkeeper Ederson is 31. Bernardo Silva, Mateo Kovacic, John Stones and Stefan Ortega are also on the other side of 30. Additionally, Jack Grealish and Nathan Ake are set to reach the milestone next year.

As a result, City face a critical moment: whether to gradually introduce younger talent or risk a sudden drop in competitiveness if key players reach the end of their peak years without viable replacements. Many inside the club believe that without a manager committed to a long-term vision, there’s a risk of leaving this transition too late.

Guardiola’s current contract expires in 2025, and while there has been talk of a possible extension for one more season, some executives are concerned that a short-term renewal would only delay the inevitable overhaul that City needs. A year-long commitment could further complicate long-term planning, potentially impacting the club’s future competitiveness.

To avoid this, City are weighing whether to encourage Guardiola to either sign on for a more substantial tenure to guide the rebuilding process, or step aside in favour of a new manager willing to shape the next era. Guardiola has previously shown interest in pursuing other ventures, and with City’s success story already firmly in place, he may see this as the right time to pass the torch.

For Manchester City, the coming months will be pivotal. Whether Guardiola commits to a new long-term deal or a new manager steps in, the club’s leadership is clear in its vision: City must retain its place among Europe’s elite by evolving its squad.

In either case, Manchester City’s leadership knows that they must act now to prepare for life after Guardiola - and ensure that the club remains a powerhouse capable of competing for trophies well into the next decade.