Man City boss Guardiola signs new contract

Pep Guardiola has agreed to a new contract with Manchester City.

The Spanish manager, 49, whose existing deal was due to expire at the end of this season, has signed a two-year extension at the Etihad, to keep him at the club until 2023.

His extension will see him overtake Joe Mercer and put him second on the Club’s list of longest-serving post-war managers.

Confirming the news, Chairman Khaldoon Mubarak said: “It is testament to the qualities of the man that Pep Guardiola’s passion and intelligent approach are now woven into the very fabric of the football we play and our culture as Club.

"That impact has been central to our success during his tenure and it is why I am delighted that he shares our view that there is so much more to be achieved both on and off the field.

“Pep’s contract extension is the natural next step in a journey which has evolved over many years.

"It is a product of the mutual trust and respect that exists between him and the entire Club. It also goes to the stability and creativity at the heart of our football operations.

"Importantly it is a validation of the football structure and philosophy that has been built over more than a decade and to which he has contributed so much.

“I’m sure all City fans share my delight in this new agreement and in anticipating the exciting opportunities that, with continued hard work, are there to be taken.”

Guardiola said: “Ever since I arrived at Manchester City I have been made to feel so welcome in the club and in the city itself - from the players, the staff, the supporters, the people of Manchester and the Chairman and Owner.

"Since then we have achieved a great deal together, scored goals, won games and trophies, and we are all very proud of that success.

“Having that kind of support is the best thing any manager can have. I have everything I could possibly want to do my job well and I am humbled by the confidence the Owner, Chairman, Ferran, and Txiki have shown in me to continue for two more years after this season.

“The challenge for us is to continue improving and evolving, and I am very excited and about helping Manchester City do that.”

Guardiola, who is now in his fifth year at Manchester City, has won two Premier League titles, three League Cups and the FA Cup with the Blues, but wants to desperately add the Champions League to that list.