Pep Guardiola extends contract with "Man City" for two years despite ongoing investigation

Despite "Man City" facing charges for financial misconduct, Pep Guardiola has extended his contract, reaffirming confidence in the case outcome.

Pep Guardiola's contract extension with "Man City" for an additional two years demonstrates a "level of confidence" in the outcome of their financial fair play case. An independent commission began hearing 115 charges brought by the "Premier League" against "Man City" in September.

The "Premier League" initiated an inquiry into "Man City" back in 2018, and after several legal delays, charges were finally laid in February 2023. The allegations against the "Citizens" concern the requirement to accurately report financial info, including sponsorship deal values, submission of manager and player pay details, and adherence as a Premier League member to UEFA's financial regulations, as well as the league's own profitability and sustainability rules (PSR). They are also accused of not cooperating with the league's investigation. Overall, there are charges relating to every season from 2009-10 to 2022-23.

On the day the charges were announced, "Man City" issued a statement fervently denying the allegations, expressing that they welcome the independent commission to "impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence in support of our position." The club added, "As such, we look forward to this matter being put to rest once and for all."

"Man City", having lost their last three Premier League matches and without a win in six games across all competitions, confirmed last week that Guardiola had signed a new contract until 2027. Former "Man City" financial adviser Stefan Borson considers Guardiola's extension "very positive" news for the "Citizens", highlighting their "level of confidence" in the case's outcome. Borson stated: "I think it’s very positive for City. It must be seen as a sign of confidence in the 115 charges scenario."

Former "Everton" CEO Keith Wyness claimed that the appeal process following the verdict of "Man City's" case could extend into 2026. Wyness shared: "Once the discussions are made public, and considering a three or four-hundred-page document is likely, an appeal might follow."

"A settlement could also be reached, depending on the verdict. I hope common sense can prevail and a settlement can conclude this case. However, if there is an appeal, it will extend even further. We could be discussing the end of 2025 or even 2026. Let’s just await the initial verdict and see if cool heads can prevail."