‘I will be here’ - Pep Guardiola addresses Man City 115 charges claim after signing contract extension
The Manchester City boss was also asked about why he signed a two-year deal rather than one.
Pep Guardiola has said the 115 Premier League charges hanging over Manchester City played no part when he was making decisions about his future.
The Catalan signed a new contract this week with confirmation on Thursday that his deal runs until 2027.
Many have interpreted that as a sign that City are confident they will not be found guilty of the charges, but speaking for the first time since the announcement was made, Guardiola reminded everyone that he has previously said that he believes the club, who firmly deny all the accusations made against them. He also promised to remain in situ no matter what the outcome of the court case is.
“I said that six months ago. You have my interviews here I say the same, not because I extend my contract,” he explained.
“I said six months ago, a year ago when all the clubs accused us of doing something wrong. What happens if we are relegated? I will be here. Next year we will come up from the Conference and come back to the Premier League. I knew it then and I feel it now.”
Meanwhile, Guardiola was asked why he extended for two years, rather than one as was previously reported.
“For the weather,” he said, pointing out the window and the grey skies. “It's a good question. Mainly I don't want next season in September, October, November to be [about] 'In this last last year of Pep? Will he extend again?'. That was the main reason. I don't want to be in that position.
“In the end, the contract is there. I would like to stay two more years but I know if the results are good I will not [stay] for two more years. It’s like the players. We have legendary players here in the team but if you don't perform our owner, chairman and fans will ask what is going on and you have to change.
“Everyone is under pressure, me the first. I have the contract but maybe in a month I am not here if the situation is not going well. I think, maybe I am arrogant, but I think we deserve to continue for what we have done in the last years.
“I deserve to extend my contract but at the same time we have to do it again and be up there. If not, the club have to find a solution.”
Guardiola also said the decision to stay was reached after a meeting that lasted just two hours.