Pep Guardiola will remain as Barcelona manager until at least the end of next season; however his long-term future at the Nou Camp remains in question.
Guardiola's existing deal was due to run out this summer but he is now committed until the end of the 2010-11 season.
The 39-year-old's new contract will not be signed until this summer, when Barça will be holding presidential elections, but current president Joan Laporta is delighted to have tied down the highly-rated coach.
"We had a meeting last night and Pep Guardiola told me he was committed to staying for at least one more season," Laporta said. "I think that is very good news for everyone associated with Barcelona because we all wanted Pep to continue," he added. "He doesn't like me saying it, but Pep Guardiola is the best coach in the world and we are proud to continue to have him here." Speculation will remain rife that the former Spanish playmaker could go elsewhere when his current contract runs out in June if the incoming president is not to his satisfaction. "I hope that my word will be sufficient," Guardiola, who turned 39 on Monday, said. "Everyone knows that three or four months is an eternity."
Reports last week had suggested that Manchester United might be interested in hiring the Spaniard after the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson. The Barcelona manager led his club to an unprecedented six trophies in 2009, including the Spanish league, the Champions League and the Club World Cup. They are undefeated in La “Liga” this term and lead the standings by five points from arch rivals Real Madrid with just under half the season played.
joan llobet is the writer.
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