Guardiola 'excited' by Man City future, not pondering exit

Pep Guardiola stated on Friday that leaving Manchester City is not currently under consideration, as he concentrates on reclaiming the Premier League crown.

The 54-year-old manager has an agreement with the club extending to the conclusion of the 2026/27 campaign, yet recent speculation suggested that City officials might be scouting successors in case the ex-Barcelona and Bayern Munich tactician departs following this term.

Enzo Maresca, currently at Chelsea and once Guardiola's aide, features prominently in those potential lists for the City position.

That said, in his Friday media briefing, Guardiola offered no hints of an impending end to his tenure, especially with his squad re-entering contention for key honours following a lacklustre previous year.

A win against bottom-tier West Ham at home on Saturday could propel City to the Premier League summit, albeit temporarily.

Moreover, they hold a strong chance of advancing to the Champions League knockout stage after their triumph over Real Madrid in the Spanish city earlier this month, and they secured a spot in the League Cup semi-finals midweek.

"The club ought to plan ahead, yet that topic remains off the agenda for now," Guardiola remarked about his prospects.

"I get why that comes up with my deal nearing its end, but as you noted accurately, 18 months remain, so I feel thrilled and content. The squad's progress has me buzzing, and I'm eager to stick around."

After a streak of six victories across competitions, City sit merely two points behind leaders Arsenal.

Nevertheless, Guardiola feels his youthful group requires further refinement to rival the championship squads from his near-decade at City.

"Despite suboptimal outcomes, plenty of encouraging aspects persist," he added. "Our playing style has not yet reached the standards for title challenges, though the potential for enhancement exists. That prospect is encouraging."

Guardiola noted that Rodri, Jeremy Doku, and John Stones will sit out the West Ham clash.

He anticipates that 2024 Ballon d'Or recipient Rodri might be available for the subsequent away fixture at Nottingham Forest.