Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola set the rumour mill alight recently when he hinted he could leave the club.
The Catalan has enjoyed eight successful campaigns at the Etihad Stadium, but this chapter in his career could soon be coming to a close.
Following the Cityzens claiming a fourth Premier League title in succession, Guardiola dropped a bombshell.
READ MORE: Man City could target £100m ‘exceptional’ Pep favourite after Paqueta transfer blow
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “The reality is I am closer to leaving than staying. We have talked with the club – my feeling is that I want to stay now. I will stay next season and during the season we will talk. But eight or nine years – we will see.”
Fabrizio Romano subsequently confirmed that Guardiola will “100%” remain with the club until 2025, but the door was notably left open for a departure at that point.
Man City, though, want to slam it shut.
READ MORE: Grealish targeted by Champions League giants as Man City future hangs in the balance
According to the Daily Mail, the Premier League champions want their boss to sign a new long-term contract extension.
The report states: “City will place no pressure on Guardiola and the decision will be his. It is also understood that he has discussed the situation with at least one key player over dinner recently to gather their thoughts and input.”
Man City to sell €60m star
Manchester City, meanwhile, are planning on saying goodbye to Matheus Nunes after just one season at the club.
Nunes joined from Wolves last summer for a fee of €62m but the 25-year-old was restricted to only a bit-part role, despite making 31 appearances.
HITC reports there is strong interest from the Saudi Pro League in the 12-time capped Portugal international star.
Guardiola had previously described him as an elite player.
Matheus Nunes is one of the best players in the world today
– Pep Guardiola (2022)
“Matheus Nunes is one of the best players in the world today… Nunes is one of the best at the moment,” he said while the midfielder was still at Sporting CP.
The Man City manager backtracked on those comments this season, telling the media: “Maybe I overexaggerated a little bit. He’s not… But he’s an exceptional player.”
It seems, though, Guardiola does not think Nunes is so exceptional.
