KUCHING: Speculation surrounding Pep Guardiola’s future at Manchester City has intensified after reports from BBC Sport claimed the club are already preparing internally for the legendary manager’s expected departure at the end of the season.
According to the report, several members within the club are understood to be anticipating Guardiola’s exit following City’s final Premier League match against Aston Villa, despite the Spaniard still having one year remaining on his contract.
BBC Sport also reported that preparations regarding how the club intends to commemorate Guardiola’s historic tenure are already under discussion, while members of the squad are likewise believed to be expecting his departure.
Manchester City, however, continue maintaining that Guardiola remains contracted for next season and are still hopeful he will stay at the Etihad Stadium.
Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who previously worked under Guardiola at City, has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to replace the 55-year-old should he leave.
Since arriving in Manchester in 2016, Guardiola has transformed City into one of world football’s modern dynasties, winning 17 major trophies including six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, three FA Cups and five League Cups.
The Spaniard could still add another league crown to his glittering collection this season after already guiding City to the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
Questions surrounding Guardiola’s future have lingered throughout the campaign, though the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss has repeatedly insisted he remains committed to the club.
Speaking to BBC Sport before Saturday’s FA Cup final, Guardiola dismissed suggestions of an imminent exit.
“I am here, I have a contract,” he said.
