Guardiola: I won't stay at City forever
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola dismissed speculation about his future with the club, insisting that contract talks are not on the agenda, despite reports suggesting he could leave at the end of the season. He added, however, that his team might not be good enough to win the title.
Although Guardiola's side, who host struggling West Ham United on Saturday, could overtake Arsenal and move to the top of the table next weekend, the Spaniard's situation was the main topic of discussion at Friday's press conference.
"I'm always asked this question, so sooner or later I will leave Manchester City," Guardiola told reporters.
"I have 18 months left on my contract, so I'm very happy with how the team is progressing. This question comes up every season."
"It's not a discussion. That's the end of it. I won't be here forever." The club needs to be ready, but that's not on the table right now.”
Reports have suggested Enzo Maresca could replace the Spaniard, although the Chelsea boss dismissed those speculations earlier on Friday.
When pressed again about whether he would stay at City next season, Guardiola said irritably: “I answered that question two times already. I’m here. What will happen, who knows?”
He added: “Even if my contract is for 10 years or six months, football changes a lot. Right now, I’m focused on the West Ham game, then playing golf with my dad in a few days, and that’s it.”
Despite City being just two points behind leaders Arsenal, Guardiola doesn’t believe his team are yet at the level required to win the league.
He said: “We’re getting results, but there are many things we need to do better. What helps is the mentality and incredible commitment.” We are not at the level required to win the league.