Manchester City and Pep Guardiola are believed to have finalised the details of a new one-year deal. However, the uncertainty surrounding Guardiola so far this season has had a negative impact on the Citizens.
Man City have lost four consecutive games for the first time since 2006. The Premier League champions in six of the last seven seasons are struggling and this is also the first time Guardiola has lost four consecutive games as a coach.
Injuries have been a factor, particularly knee surgery that has ruled Rodri out for the rest of the season, but there is also a growing sense around the Etihad that this is suddenly a club in transition.
The two most important factors for Guardiola when deciding his future are the opinion of his family and the motivation of the players.
Signing a one-year extension would extend Guardiola's time at the Etihad to a full decade, something City would love to celebrate. It also means Guardiola could quietly leave in the summer of 2026.
Sources close to Man City have told ESPN that a potential managerial transition would be much easier in 2026 than in the shortened summer of 2025 due to the FIFA Club World Cup. By then, Man City could also know the final outcome of the Premier League's 115 financial charges.
Man City have refused to comment on potential sanctions, but those close to Guardiola have the impression he wants to stay on after the verdict to help Man City deal with any potential punishment.
The Citizens feel indebted to Guardiola, but Guardiola also feels the same towards the club for creating the environment for success over the years.
"I will not delay any action when I know that I am creating problems for the club. If I feel I am a problem for the club right now, I will make a decision as quickly as possible. But I do not have that feeling. They understand my reasons" - Guardiola replied when asked about Man City's poor form.
Whatever happens, Guardiola's reign will end at the end of the 2025-26 season. Man City will have another year before he leaves, possibly to take charge of the national team. What happens after that, however, is anyone's guess...
