Man City deadline for Pep Guardiola decision emerges after secret England talks

Manchester City are expecting a decision over Pep Guardiola's future by the end of January.

The Catalan coach , with the potentially facing another managerial giant leaving 12 months on from 's shock . Guardiola is said to be, however.

City bosses would be keen to tie him down to a longer deal but would be happy with the former coach remaining with the club for a further year. Guardiola joined the club in 2016 and has stayed in position longer than in his previous managerial roles.

The Association , with his current £18m-a-year contract expiring in the summer. However, Guardiola's reluctance to decide what to do next season meant England were forced to explore other candidates - and.

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City are hopeful of having clarity over Guardiola's position come the beginning of next year, according to . The report adds that the former midfielder's next move could be informed by the outcome of the club's trial in relation to the 115 charges of breaking financial rules they face.

During the international break, Guardiola has attempted to play down speculation over his future. In an appearance on Italian TV show Che Tempo Che Fa he was interrogated over what where his career could take him in the near future.

He said: “Leaving City? It’s not true, I haven’t decided yet. And it is not even true that I will be the next England coach. If I had decided I would say it … I don’t know either, anything can happen.”

When asked last month about the possibility of managing in Italy in the future, Guardiola . The ex-Roma ace spoke glowingly about working in England instead.

The Catalan emphatically answered: "I love Italy but I really enjoy being here. I love English football. It is fantastic. I really enjoy it. They leave you alone to get on with your job. That doesn’t happen anywhere else. This is a great club. I really feel good here. I am pleased to be here."

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