Pep Guardiola says he is open to extending his stay at Manchester City beyond the end of this coming season.
The Spaniard’s current contract expires at the end of the campaign and last season, Guardiola said he was “closer to leaving than staying” at City.
But speaking on their pre-season tour of the USA, Guardiola clarified that he had not made a decision on whether to extend his contract.
“When I’m leaving, I will say I’m leaving, but I didn’t say that,” Guardiola said before City’s friendly against AC Milan.
“We will see what happens. But I will not rule it out absolutely to extend my contract. I would love to stay because I would love to stay.
“[I was] saying that I [had] been eight years in Man City. So I’m not here for eight more years. So that’s why I’m closer to leaving than staying. But I didn’t say I’m leaving.
“Nine years today in the same club is an eternity, I want to be sure it’s the right decision. Not just for me, for the club, for the players.”
Guardiola also says he is hopeful of keeping goalkeeper Ederson at the club, with the Brazilian keeper being linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.
“I wish with the bottom of my heart Eddie will continue with us,” Guardiola said.
“I would love him to stay. I cannot imagine our processes succeeding these last seasons without him. He is an important figure in the locker room.”
FEATURED IMAGE: Ben Stansall / AFP VIA ONE FOOTBALL
