Pep Guardiola has revealed that Manchester City are nearing an agreement with Phil Foden on a new contract, while expressing optimism that Josko Gvardiol will also commit his future to the club.
Speaking ahead of the Premier League clash with Brentford, the Catalan manager confirmed that discussions are progressing well but the final signatures have yet to be secured.
City are working diligently to tie down their key players. Foden, an England international, is reportedly set to pen a four-year extension that would keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2030. Guardiola stated he has been in contact with the club’s sporting director regarding the negotiations, noting that talks are positive but not yet finalized. Meanwhile, the club is eager to reward Gvardiol with a long-term contract and improved terms, despite the Croatian defender recently dealing with injury issues.
Guardiola provided an update on the talks, saying: “I asked my sporting director, they [with Foden] are close. Hopefully it is going to happen. But still it is not done.” Regarding Gvardiol, he added: “I have no info. I would love Gvardiol to stay here. It is not easy to find a player like him so hopefully he can stay.”
Gvardiol has returned to training after recovering from a fractured right leg that kept him sidelined for approximately four months. Guardiola expressed his delight at seeing the defender back: “He is training. It has been many months. Last season, he was an important player for us, played all the games and then your body says enough is enough. Happy he is back.”
The manager added: “Hopefully he can help us in the last part of the season and make a good World Cup with Croatia. Next season we can have him at his best. Central defender, full-back. He can play different roles so fast, so quick, really good to have him back. Like Ruben as well.”
City aim to finalize both deals before the summer transfer window opens, aiming to avoid distractions and ward off interest from rival clubs. The club is confident Gvardiol will earn playing time before the season ends and could feature for Croatia in the upcoming World Cup.
On the pitch, City remain in the hunt for the Premier League title. Guardiola’s side sit second in the table, five points behind leaders Arsenal with a game in hand. After facing Brentford, City host Crystal Palace in the league before taking on Chelsea in the FA Cup final next weekend.
