Pep Guardiola had significant doubts about committing to a new contract with Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola took his time deciding whether to sign a new contract with Manchester City due to ongoing struggles with a painful back injury. The Spaniard is expected to put an end to speculation about his future by agreeing to a one-year extension to his current deal, which expires next summer, with an option to extend for another year until 2027. If he serves both years, Guardiola would mark a decade at the Etihad Stadium.

While the club was eager for him to stay, Guardiola had some reservations, leading to a late decision to finalize the agreement. According to the Manchester Evening News, the 53-year-old has been dealing with considerable pain since undergoing back surgery. He also needed reassurance that extending his stay was the right choice for him and his family.

Guardiola has expressed a desire to manage an international team in the future. Reflecting on his decision in the summer, he said: “I want to be sure it’s the right decision, not just for me but for the club, the players. If they run like they already have for eight years, no matter the competition, then this is what I have to see. When I said I would love to stay, it’s because I truly want to stay.”

City players have also encouraged him to remain, with defender Josko Gvardiol praising Guardiola’s leadership. “Pep is always passionate and focused,” Gvardiol said. “He constantly innovates and motivates us. We all want him to stay because he brings out the best in us and has built something special here. Working under Pep is incredibly rewarding.”

As City aim for a fifth consecutive Premier League title, Guardiola will likely receive a warm reception when his team faces Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium this Saturday evening.