Guardiola says ‘I never ask to stay—just for a chance to turn things around’ as he responds to contract extension critic

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has made a heartfelt plea to the club’s hierarchy, not for job security, but for the opportunity to steer the team back to winning ways.

Amid City’s toughest spell under his reign—five consecutive losses across all competitions—the Spaniard has doubled down on his commitment to rebuilding the side he’s led to unparalleled success.

Guardiola’s Words: Passion Over Pride

Speaking to the club’s official website, Pep Guardiola reflected on his motivation, saying:

“I extend [my contract] because I feel it. I’m not sitting here just for what I’ve done; it’s because I’m still happy and I want to try. But the moment I feel I’m a problem, I don’t want to stay.”

He clarified that his ongoing presence at the Etihad isn’t rooted in obligation:

“I never ask my hierarchy to stay. My chairman knows it. I said to him, ‘Give me the chance to try and come back.’ I still feel I have a job to do, and I want to do it.”

Guardiola, who recently signed a two-year extension, remains steadfast in his belief that City’s form will improve, particularly when the squad regains key players from injury.

A Track Record to Trust

Since arriving at City in 2016, Guardiola has delivered 18 trophies, including an unprecedented six Premier League titles in seven seasons and the elusive Champions League triumph. However, recent performances, including a 3-3 draw against Feyenoord after leading 3-0, have raised eyebrows.

Ahead of Sunday’s clash with Premier League leaders Liverpool, Guardiola faces one of his toughest tests. City currently sits fourth, and Anfield has historically been a fortress for Liverpool—the Blues’ last win there came during the COVID-19 era in February 2021.

No Favourites in the Big Games

Guardiola dismissed the notion of his side being favourites, emphasizing the importance of performance over reputation:

“Well, we have only won there once during COVID when there were no people there. Nothing changes my job. Of course, we are not favourites… We have to perform, read what you have to do, and see what happens.”

The City boss drew on his experience managing Barcelona’s all-star squad, noting that being favourites never guaranteed success:

“When I played with these extraordinary players in Barcelona, being favourites didn’t give us an extra boost or a head start. We had to prove it on the pitch.”

Analysis: Guardiola’s Resolve vs. Reality

Guardiola’s latest comments underline his unwavering determination to fight through adversity, but the situation is far from straightforward. City’s injury woes, defensive lapses, and lack of rhythm have exposed vulnerabilities rarely seen under Guardiola. However, with his tactical brilliance and history of turning the tide, betting against Pep would be unwise.

Sunday’s clash at Anfield is more than a game; it’s a litmus test for Manchester City’s resilience. Victory could reignite their title chase, while defeat might deepen the slump.

The spotlight is firmly on Guardiola—and, if history is any indicator, he thrives in such moments.