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Pep Guardiola's three-word hint on Barcelona return

Published 10 months ago on Jun 11, 2024

Pep Guardiola Shuts Door on Barcelona Return, Hints at Manchester City Exit.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has definitively ruled out a return to his former club Barcelona, but left his future at the Etihad Stadium uncertain after hinting that next season could be his last.

Guardiola, whose current contract expires next year, has enjoyed immense success at City, leading them to a record-breaking fourth consecutive Premier League title in the 2022-23 season. This accomplishment marked his sixth league title in just seven years as a manager. The Spaniard also guided City to a historic treble in the 2020-21 season, securing the Premier League, FA Cup, and the club's first-ever Champions League trophy.

Despite his achievements, Guardiola has remained tight-lipped about his long-term plans at City. However, he has definitively closed the door on a potential return to Barcelona. When questioned about a second stint at the Catalan club during a press conference at his annual golf tournament, The Legends Trophy, Guardiola delivered a clear three-word response: "It's a door that is closed."

This comes after a disappointing season for Barcelona in 2023-24. Under manager Xavi, the team finished trophyless and a significant ten points behind rivals Real Madrid in La Liga. Xavi's departure from the club paved the way for the appointment of German manager Hansi Flick, who was frequently compared to Guardiola during his time at Bayern Munich.

Addressing these comparisons, Guardiola emphasized that he had no control over such viewpoints. "What is certain is that it's not my fault," he stated. "I've been away from Barcelona for 11 or 12 years. I'm not a suspect in that sense."

He further deflected the comparisons by suggesting the media inquire with those who make them. "Ask that to those that have made the comparisons, I haven't," he said. Despite not returning himself, Guardiola offered well wishes to Xavi in his future endeavors.

Guardiola's reign at Barcelona was a period of immense success. During his four seasons in charge, he amassed an impressive collection of 14 major trophies, including a historic treble in Spanish football. While his return to the club is no longer a possibility, he expressed his support for the new manager, Hansi Flick.

"I wish him the best of luck in the world," Guardiola said. He offered valuable advice for the incoming manager, highlighting the importance of building support within the club. "When you arrive at a new club you always need help," he explained. "You have to try to get help from within and have total support. You have to go little by little. You can't be champion in September or October."

Acknowledging Flick's experience and achievements, Guardiola expressed confidence in his abilities. "Hansi is an extraordinary person, who has a lot of desire. A lot," he said. "But he needs his time. What he did at Bayern was extraordinary, he won everything."

Guardiola's comments regarding his future at Manchester City leave room for speculation. While he has not explicitly stated his intention to leave, his cryptic remarks suggest a potential departure after the upcoming season. This news will undoubtedly spark discussions among fans and pundits alike, with many eagerly awaiting further clarification from the highly successful manager.

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