Blogs

Man City beat Chelsea and Man United to double Cl-winner’s coveted signature

|
Image for Man City beat Chelsea and Man United to double Cl-winner’s coveted signature

Pep Guardiola

According to reports from BBC Sport, Chelsea and Manchester United managerial target Pep Guardiola has agreed to take over as Manchester City gaffer ahead of next season. 

The Bayern Munich boss, who won two Champions League titles during his four years in charge of Barcelona, revealed in December that he would not extend his Allianz Arena contract past the end of the season.

That quickly lead to reports of Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United scrapping over the Spaniard’s services, with all three Premier League clubs tipped to replace their current managers next summer.

But according to BBC Sport, the Citizens have now confirmed that Guardiola will take the Etihad hot seat from the start of the 2016/17 campaign on a three-year contract.

Their announcement came after current gaffer Manuel Pellegrini, who could still guide the club to four trophies this season, revealed to the press that he will leave the club at the end of the season.

Want More? Chelsea News | Man City NewsMan United News 

The Chilean, who lifted the Premier League title during the 2013/14 season, said; “I talked to the club and I will finish my contract on the original date. We signed a contract for one more year, but with a clause that one of the club or me cannot use that extended contract. So I will finish here on the original date.

“They are not doing anything behind me. I knew this a month ago. But I don’t think it’s good, this rumour and speculation about different things. I would prefer to finish the speculation today. That’s why I told the press, I told the players, and I spoke with the club two weeks ago saying that I would do it.”

An official club statement, meanwhile, read; “Manchester City can confirm that in recent weeks it has commenced and finalised contractual negotiations with Pep Guardiola to become MCFC Head Coach for the 2016/17 EPL season onwards.

“The contract is for three years. These negotiations were a re-commencement of discussions that were curtailed in 2012. Out of respect for Manuel Pellegrini and the players, the Club wishes to make its decision public to remove the unnecessary burden of speculation.

“Manuel, who is fully supportive of the decision to make this communication, is entirely focused on achieving his targets for the season ahead and retains the respect and commitment of all involved with the leadership of the club.”

Also in the news:

Man City leading Chelsea in £50m race for Everton star

Real Madrid ready £23m transfer raid on Man United

Chelsea line up £60m Hazard replacement

Spurs warn Man United against deadline day defender swoop

Click here to enter our football survey for the chance to WIN £150 of Amazon Vouchers!

Share this article