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City’s most successful manager ended uncertainty over his future this week when extending his reign until 2027. The 53-year-old claimed the deal was agreed during a two-hour meeting with the City hierarchy, including the chief executive, Ferran Soriano, and outgoing director of football Txiki Begiristain, and he signed for two years to avoid another round of speculation over his future in 12 months’ time.
Guardiola appeared galvanised by the agreement when previewing Tottenham’s visit to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, having suffered four straight defeats in all competitions, the worst run of his illustrious managerial career. He reiterated that he would remain City manager even if the club were relegated to the “Conference” – a punishment he claimed 75% of Premier League rivals wanted – should they be found guilty of breaching Premier League rules.
The 130 charges, with the hearing currently under way, and City’s dispute with the Premier League over associated party transactions (APT) rules have cast a shadow over the success of Guardiola’s team. But the City manager insisted they merely strengthen his resolve to lead the club through this controversial period.
“I don’t enjoy it, I prefer not to be in that position, but once it’s there I love it,” said Guardiola about defending City against various off-field matters. “Because you believe in your club and the people there. I believe what they say to me and the reasons why. I said, ‘OK, let’s see.’ I cannot say [any more] yet because we’re awaiting the sentence in February or March – I don’t know when – but, at the same time, I like it.”
Sixteen clubs fell behind the Premier League’s proposed changes to APT …
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