When writing about Pep Guardiola’s current situation, journalists stated that he is happier at Manchester City than ever before and has no desire to leave.
After last season, Manchester City’s recent signs of recovery have given Guardiola more hope and energy, allowing him to demand more from the team. Two weeks ago, when news broke that Enzo Maresca had held talks with Manchester City regarding a succession plan, Guardiola’s future at the club sparked widespread speculation.
However, Guardiola made his stance clear in a recent response, attempting to put an end to speculation about the future: “I am happy here, I want to stay here, I feel good now, and that’s why I want to continue. Will this change? Maybe, I don’t know. But right now, my feeling is that it won’t change. I want to carry on with these players for as long as possible.”
Now, apart from being clearly satisfied with the team’s steady progress, what’s more important is that Guardiola has a thorough understanding of the English football environment. From referees to fixture schedules and media responsibilities, he no longer cares who he offends. He is not attacking anyone, but rather a man full of confidence in himself. Having won numerous honors, he can face various topics calmly without worrying about political correctness.
Given Guardiola’s coaching qualifications, achievements, and contributions to English football, this is completely his right and should not be seen as a problem. Some people believe that Guardiola’s recent changes may be because he sees the end of his coaching career and wants to settle some old scores in the remaining time. Others argue that this more relaxed attitude stems from the team’s results and performance, as well as the modernization of Manchester City’s tactics, for which assistant coach Rodolfo Borrell deserves great credit.
One clear fact about Guardiola at present is that he has publicly stated that if he can continue to greet each morning with such energy, fulfilling his contract is a very possible and most likely option. Club insiders also said that Guardiola is happier now than ever before.
But Guardiola also admits he is a “weirdo” who may change his mind at any time. That is why he has no objection to Manchester City contacting Enzo Maresca, a potential successor. He believes this is a sensible move and knows that the final decision is still in his hands — if Guardiola wants to stay for another five years, he will stay for another five years.
It is not new for Manchester City to prepare for the future in advance. Earlier, foreign coaches had in-depth discussions with former football director Txiki Begiristain, and even potential coaching staff candidates were considered. However, Guardiola ultimately renewed his contract, and the matter came to an end.
Obviously, these meetings and informal conversations were not held behind Guardiola’s back. His relationship with Maresca is clearly very close. Privately, Guardiola also highly supports Roberto De Zerbi; Andoni Iraola is favored by some people; Luis Enrique is also an obvious candidate. Of course, Manchester City has not ignored Vincent Kompany’s work at Bayern Munich.
These talented coaches are all closely watching Guardiola’s next move. Currently, no one really knows Guardiola’s final decision — not even himself. Manchester City is just preparing for all possibilities.
