Pep Guardiola has declared that he would not forgive himself if he left Manchester City during what he described as one of the most challenging periods of his tenure. Despite his glittering record at the club, which includes 18 major trophies, City have struggled for consistency during the 2024-25 season, sitting 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool.
Commitment to the Club
In November, Guardiola extended his contract until 2027, a decision that will make him City’s longest-serving manager since Les McDowall in 1963. The Spaniard emphasized his dedication to the club, particularly during difficult times.
“I am here, so when I feel I cannot handle it, the club—I would not forgive myself if now I said I am going to leave,” Guardiola told Sky Sports. “I would not forgive myself.”
Guardiola acknowledged the inherent ups and downs in football, drawing parallels to life itself.
“Life is always up and down, and when it happens, it happens. It is a big challenge,” he said. “I don’t know if we’ll bounce back, but at least I will not regret one second that I did not try.”
A Tough Season
City’s current campaign has been marked by inconsistency. While they are unbeaten in their last four Premier League matches, they squandered a 2-0 lead against Brentford in their most recent outing. They also exited the EFL Cup in the last 16 against Tottenham.
In Europe, City face an uphill battle in the Champions League, where they will meet Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16 after collecting just eight points from their six group-stage games.
Haaland’s Long-Term Commitment
Amid the challenges, there has been positive news for City. Star striker Erling Haaland recently signed a long-term contract, keeping him at the Etihad until 2034.
Perspective on Success and Adversity
Guardiola reflected on the broader picture of his time at City, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and resilience:
“You cannot win all the competitions you play for just one reason—because it is impossible! Even for me, it is impossible. But the majority of the 500-plus games here have been a dream come true, a paradise,” he said.
“We maybe had one bad season or two bad seasons. That’s what happens in life. We overestimate success in life too much. We will try our best to bounce back.”
What’s Next for City?
City are still alive in the FA Cup, where they face Leyton Orient in the fourth round. However, their most immediate challenge is their upcoming Champions League clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
As Guardiola works to guide City through this turbulent period, his commitment to the club remains unwavering, and his belief in his players’ ability to bounce back is resolute.
