Premier League managers Arne Slot, Fabian Hurzeler and Eddie Howe of Liverpool, Brighton and Newcastle respectively all believe Pep Guardiola’s contract extension with Manchester City bodes well for the English game.
Guardiola’s current contract was set to expire at the end of this season, but the 53-year-old signed a new agreement on Thursday to keep him at the Etihad Stadium until 2027.
Liverpool’s Slot, who is yet to face the Spaniard since taking charge at Anfield, believes his contract extension is “good news” for the Premier League. The table topping Reds are billed to lock horns with the defending champions on December 1.
“It’s good news for City and for the league because everyone wants the best managers and the best players over here,” Slot said when asked about Guardiola’s new contract.
“He is definitely one of the best managers, maybe the best manager of the league. He’s won four titles in a row, so it’s fair to say he’s maybe the best manager in the league.
“On the other hand, they have so many quality players that, if he would have made the choice to leave, I wouldn’t have expected them to end up bottom of the league next season.”
Hurzeler, whose Brighton side handed Guardiola and his charges their most recent defeat just before the November international break, also echoed the sentiments of his Dutch counterpart.
“He is one of the best coaches in the world,” Hurzeler said. “With his ideas, he always brings something new to the football stage, and it is always a challenge to compete against him.
“He always adapts quickly, always has new ideas and he can always win the game. I’m very happy because we can learn from him and to compete with him is a big, big experience.”
Newcastle United’s Howe added: “He’s contributed so much to English football. He’s revolutionised how a lot of teams play. I think he’s incredibly talented, and it’s good for the English game that he’s still here.
“He will continue to develop and evolve his style, and people will potentially continue to follow that. From the competition side, I think it keeps the Premier League as the best in the world.”
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
