Pep Guardiola has described his decade managing Manchester City as “fucking fun,” a sentiment that may or may not be shared by the rest of the Premier League. The suggestion that Saturday’s FA Cup final against Chelsea could be his last time leading City out at Wembley was met with the managerial equivalent of a dismissive hand wave.
Despite Guardiola’s contract running until summer 2027, the rumor mill is churning out predictions of a close-season departure. Saturday’s final will mark City’s 24th cup appearance at the national stadium under the Spaniard, who is aiming to claim the 17th major trophy of his 10-year reign - or 19 if you count the Community Shield, which he does.
When a reporter pointed out that this haul might be the mark of his greatness, Guardiola flexed his right biceps and said: “Yeah. Of course, 19 titles in 10 years is not bad.” Asked if his success is taken for granted, he added: “They don’t need to wait when I’m leaving, they know I’ve been fun. I’ve been fucking fun. So, 19 titles, fighting for 20 in 10 years, it’s not bad, honestly.”
As for the possibility that Saturday’s visit to Wembley might be tinged with sadness? “No way. No way. I have a one year [left on my] contract,” Guardiola said. “I’m so disappointed that they don’t make a stand for Pep [at Wembley], the number of times I’ve been there - at least a lounge or a box. Maybe I go 24 more times.” He then waxed nostalgic about winning the European Cup there as a Barcelona player in 1992 and the Champions League as head coach in 2011, noting that Wembley remains “a special place.”
In less philosophical news, Rodri faces a late fitness test ahead of the Chelsea clash.