Pep Guardiola has dropped a hint that he’s ready to stay on as Manchester City manager by warning the rest of the Premier League that his team will only realise their full potential next season.
Guardiola is under contract at the Etihad Stadium until 2027, although there have been suggestions he could walk away at the end of the current campaign after 10 years at the club.
Despite undergoing a revamp over the last year, City are in the thick of the title race and still fighting for trophies in the Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
But Guardiola insists they are “not a complete team” and will only be properly equipped to win major honours next season.
“We are not a complete team to compete to, you know, to be solid,” said Guardiola.
“That is the reality. But we are in the process of many changes.
“If we can learn quicker, and still nothing is lost, you know, we can arrive in the last month with the chances.
“But I’m pretty sure next season will be better. Next season will be better. I don’t have doubts about that.”
City face Newcastle in the FA Cup on Saturday in what will be the fifth meeting between the sides this season.
– Newcastle United vs Manchester City in the FA Cup: TV channel, kick-off time, live stream, referee, injury and team news
– Pep Guardiola accepts Man City may need luck in fifth Newcastle clash
– Pep Guardiola rejects claims Arsenal would be unworthy champions
After playing at St James’ Park, Guardiola will have three days to prepare his players for the Champions League last-16 first leg against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, had their weekend game against Celta Vigo brought forward to Friday night.
It gives the Spanish side an extra 24 hours to recover, but Guardiola says he’s given up expecting Premier League clubs to get help with their schedule when it comes to European fixtures.
“For here in England it is more important what happened in the Carabao Cup than the Champions League games for the English teams,” the City boss said.
“It happened since day one. So it’s no surprise.
“In the schedule, the broadcasters decide because they say, we pay a lot of money. OK, well done, I got a lot of money. Thank you so much. You’re so kind. So it’s that.”
