Pep Guardiola has sparked excitement and intrigue among Manchester City fans after suggesting he may not consider stepping away from management for another 10 years, in a light-hearted but telling remark made this week.
The Catalan tactician’s future has long been a topic of discussion, especially given the relentless success and intensity that have defined his nine-year reign at the Etihad Stadium. Yet, despite whispers of burnout or a potential sabbatical, Guardiola shows no signs of slowing down.
Currently contracted until the summer of 2027, the 54-year-old continues to lead Manchester City with characteristic passion and drive, guiding the club through another phase of evolution following the departure of long-serving analyst Carles Planchart this summer.
It was Planchart, now a former member of Guardiola’s backroom staff, who recently suggested that his old mentor might soon need a break from the touchline to recharge. However, when asked about those remarks ahead of City’s clash with Everton, Guardiola gave a typically humorous but revealing response.
“He’s right! But in 2035, I will start to think about it,” Guardiola quipped — a line that instantly sent waves through the media and fanbase, hinting at the possibility of a longer stay at Manchester City than previously imagined.
Expanding on his comments, Guardiola added a thoughtful reflection on longevity and personal motivation in management: “I think in life it’s best when you have a new project constantly. When you do the same thing for many years, it’s completely different. But these things come naturally — when the club, or the players, or the manager feel it’s time. We’ve always had a very honest relationship here, and when the moment comes, it comes naturally.”
He continued, “Everyone has their own desires and wishes — assistants leave, backroom staff move on — and that’s normal. But for now, I’m still here in front of you!”
Guardiola’s latest remarks come during a busy stretch of updates and appearances, where he has defended Nico Gonzalez after his mistake against AS Monaco, and addressed Erling Haaland’s emotional post-match reactions. His calm demeanour and consistent message of trust and evolution have helped steady the mood around the club as new leadership structures take hold.
Should Guardiola decide to extend beyond 2027, it would mark one of the longest tenures in modern European football. His potential decade-plus stay would also cement Manchester City’s transformation under his guidance — from Premier League challengers to a global footballing powerhouse built on stability, innovation, and sustained excellence.
For now, though, the City boss remains focused on the present, guiding his side through another demanding season domestically and in Europe. But his light-hearted “2035” declaration might just be more than a joke — a subtle sign that Guardiola’s love affair with Manchester City is far from over.
FAQ
- Q: Did Pep Guardiola really hint at staying at Manchester City until 2035?
A: While his remark was delivered playfully, Guardiola’s “2035” response suggests he feels energized and isn’t planning on stepping away from management any time soon.
- Q: When does Pep Guardiola’s current contract expire?
A: Guardiola’s current deal runs until the summer of 2027, meaning any extension would take him well beyond a decade in charge of Manchester City.
- Q: What prompted Guardiola’s comment about the future?
A: His former assistant, Carles Planchart, had suggested Pep might benefit from a break soon — prompting Guardiola’s humorous yet intriguing response.
- Q: How long has Guardiola been at Manchester City?
A: Pep Guardiola joined City in 2016 and has since guided them to multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy.
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola’s “2035” remark may have been tongue-in-cheek, but it underscores a crucial reality — the Manchester City boss still possesses the hunger and vision that made him one of football’s greatest managers. With a legacy already secured and a new generation of talent emerging at the Etihad, Guardiola’s words hint at a future built on continuity, creativity, and long-term excellence. Whether it’s seven more years or ten, Pep’s era in Manchester is far from finished.
