Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has played down speculation about his future at the club, insisting that contract talks are not currently under discussion, even as rumours suggest he could depart at the end of the season. The Spaniard, however, admitted his team are still not at the level required to win the Premier League title.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of Saturday’s home clash against West Ham United, Guardiola said:
“I always get asked this question, so sooner or later I will quit Manchester City,” Guardiola told reporters. “I have 18 months and I’m very happy with the development of the team. This question comes up every season at some point. Whatever will happen, will happen.
“There are no discussions. End of the subject. I won’t be here forever. The club must be prepared, but this is not something on the table right now.”
Despite City sitting just two points behind league leaders Arsenal, Guardiola was clear that his side is not yet good enough to secure the title. “We have results, but there are many things we must improve,” he said. “The mentality and commitment are incredible, but we are not at the level required to win the title.”
City are unbeaten in their last six matches in all competitions, with summer signing Rayan Cherki emerging as a standout performer. The 22-year-old midfielder, who joined from Lyon for £34 million, scored in Wednesday’s 2–0 League Cup quarter-final win over Brentford and recently impressed fans with a rabona assist for Phil Foden against Sunderland.
City host West Ham, who currently sit 18th in the Premier League standings, on Saturday.
REUTERS