Pep Guardiola stated on Friday that the majority of the Premier League clubs would like to see City relegated due to the alleged financial rule breaches.
Despite this, the City manager has vowed to remain at the Etihad Stadium even if the club were to be demoted to the fifth tier of English football.
Pep Guardiola who has led City to six Premier League titles in the last seven years, recently extended his contract by two years, committing to the reigning champions until 2027.
The Premier League’s investigation into 115 charges against City has been ongoing, with a verdict anticipated before the season ends. City has strongly denied any wrongdoing, but if found guilty, they could face severe penalties, including significant point deductions.
The Spanish coach has been vocal in defending the club saying, “I prefer not to be in that position, but once it’s there I love it because, when you believe in your club, and the people there – I believe what they say to me and the reasons why.
“I cannot say yet because we’re awaiting the sentence in February or March…I read something about the situation and how you need to be relegated immediately. Seventy-five per cent of the clubs want it because I know what they do behind the scenes and this sort of stuff.
“I said when all the clubs accused us of doing something wrong, (and people asked) what happens if we are relegated, (I said) I will be here.
“Next year, I don’t know the position of the Conference they are going to (put) us, (but) we are going to come up and come up and come back to the Premier League. I knew it then and I feel it now.”
Pep’s contract renewal comes comes during a challenging period, as City have suffered four consecutive defeats for the first time in Guardiola’s managerial career.
“When you are here for nine years, with a long time at one club, you live all the scenarios, all the situations.
“You’re able to lose four games in a row, but at the same time you’re able to win four Premier Leagues in a row,” added Pep Guardiola.
Their losing streak began with a League Cup elimination by Tottenham, followed by Premier League losses to Bournemouth and Brighton, and a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Sporting Lisbon.
Despite the setbacks, Pep Guardiola defended City’s achievements, emphasizing their unprecedented feat of winning four consecutive top-flight English titles.
He remains optimistic about turning the tide as City prepares for their next match at the Etihad Stadium, where they have remained unbeaten in open play for two years.
“We have to start to win games, we know it. We are coming back at home, hopefully, we can perform well and start to take our rhythm,” the City coach affirmed.
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