Pep Guardiola to consider New York City FC switch after Manchester City exit?

By Oliver Thomas, Senior Reporter | 04 December 2021

Guardiola to consider New York City FC switch after Man City exit?

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has not ruled out a potential switch to MLS outfit New York City FC when his contract at the Etihad Stadium expires in June 2023.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has not ruled out a potential switch to MLS outfit New York City FC in the near future.

The 50-year-old's current contract at the Etihad Stadium expires in June 2023, and the Spaniard has already confirmed that he will not manage another English club, leading to speculation surrounding his future.

Guardiola has a strong affiliation with the United States, after spending a year-long sabbatical in New York before joining Bayern Munich in 2012.

According to 90min, plans are in place for Guardiola to stay a part of City Football Group and make a direct switch to Man City's sister club NYCFC, should he decide against taking another sabbatical.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the Citizens' clash with Watford on Saturday, Guardiola said: "I've spent a lot of time in New York City during my career. I have been fortunate to see first-hand the passion that New Yorkers have for soccer.

"It is a city that I deeply love. I have said it for many years, I think there is an incredibly bright future for soccer in the United States.

"Young people want to play and need a place to play. The fact that there are now 50 new football pitches throughout New York City because of NYCFC and our group is amazing and will make a big difference in the lives of young people.

"All over the world, I've seen how football can change lives; it brings people together like no other sport – and I'm very proud that [City Football Group] has played a part in using our sport to bring people together and give young people more places to play the game we love here in Manchester and around the world."

NYCFC, who are currently managed by Ronny Deila, are hoping to win their first major trophy when they face Philadelphia Union in the Eastern Conference final on Sunday.