Pep Guardiola has said he is committed to Manchester City regardless of the outcome of the club’s Premier League charges.
Guardiola signed a new two-year contract with the club this week, a deal that will extend his time with the Citizens beyond a decade.
The Spaniard has signed fresh terms despite the ongoing charges against the champions. City have been charged with more than 115 breaches of Premier League rules, relating to financial fair play rules. If found guilty, the club could face sanctions as severe as relegation.
Despite the ongoing uncertainty, with a verdict expected in the New Year, Guardiola said he remains committed to the club and is prepared to lead them in the lower leagues.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Spurs, he said: “I said that six months ago. If we get relegated, I will be here and next year we’re going to come up to the Premier League. I knew it then, I feel it now.”
Asked why he decided to sign a new two-year deal, as opposed to a one-year extension, Guardiola added: “Mainly, I don’t want next season in September, October, November, to be ‘is this the last year of Pep? Will he extend again?’ That was the main reason, I don’t want to be in that position.
“In the end, the contract is there. I would like to stay two more years, but I know that if results are not good it won’t be two years.
“It’s the same with the players. We have some incredible, legendary players here but you have to perform. if you don’t perform, our owner, chairman and fans will say ‘what’s going on? We have to change’. Everyone is under pressure, with me the first.
“Maybe it’s a little bit arrogant but I think we deserve to continue, for what we have done in the last years. But at the same time, we have to do it again, we have to be up there. If we’re not, the club has to find a solution.”
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