Pep Guardiola refused to reveal his intentions regarding his Manchester City tenure when pressed by journalists ahead of his side's FA Cup match with Liverpool today.
The 55-year-old manager, whose deal at the Etihad Stadium runs until 2027, offered no clarity on whether he intends to remain beyond this campaign.
"I spoke many times about that," Guardiola stated, deflecting enquiries about his contractual situation.
The Spaniard had planned to reach a decision during the recent international window about fulfilling his existing agreement.
Whilst City maintain publicly that they anticipate their manager staying for next season, insiders suggest the club would not be shocked should Guardiola opt to depart this summer.
City's attention now turns to this afternoon's FA Cup quarterfinal clash with Liverpool at the Etihad.
Arne Slot's side travel to Manchester having managed just two victories in their previous six fixtures across all competitions, with a challenging Champions League encounter against Paris Saint-Germain awaiting them midweek.
Pep Guardiola's Man City contract is due to expire at the end of next season
| PADespite Liverpool's recent struggles, Guardiola has cautioned his squad against taking anything for granted.
"They have been the biggest rival," the City boss remarked.
He pointed to the Merseyside club's substantial financial outlay last season as evidence of their long-term ambitions.
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Five things to know about Man City boss Pep Guardiola | PA/GETTY"They are a top contender with top class players. Hopefully we can perform at the level that we did against Arsenal to reach the next step," Guardiola added.
Guardiola faces a selection dilemma over whether to include Phil Foden in his starting lineup against Liverpool.
The midfielder endured a difficult international break with England, with national team manager Thomas Tuchel indicating that the player's current form could jeopardise his World Cup place.
However, the City boss dismissed any concerns about the 25-year-old's confidence or ability.
"Zero," Guardiola responded when asked if he harboured doubts about Foden.
The manager then emphasised the midfielder's remarkable contribution to the club's success, noting his involvement in six Premier League title triumphs. Guardiola views the current dip as entirely predictable for a player navigating a lengthy professional career.
Man City have already beaten Liverpool twice this season in the Premier League
| REUTERS"He's 25, 26, won six Premier Leagues and the contribution he has done is incredible," he stated.
"What happens is a normal process in a long career.
"It's a normal situation and the moment he will make the click and turn he will be back."
City and Liverpool have already played twice this season.
Guardiola's men cruised to a 3-0 victory at the Etihad back in November, with Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez and Jeremy Doku all on target.
They then won 2-1 at Anfield, with Bernardo Silva and Haaland scoring in February's fixture.