Portugal Colonial - Guardiola silent on Man City exit reports

Widespread reports on Monday said the City boss would stand down after Sunday's final Premier League game against Aston Villa.

City have yet to respond publicly to the speculation.

Asked how much the attention on him had affected preparation for the game, the Catalan told Sky Sports: "Zero."

Sky said City would not allow questions on Guardiola's future at Bournemouth.

Guardiola, who has a year remaining on his contract, is likely to face more questions on the matter after a match City must win to take the title race to the final day of the season.

If confirmed, Guardiola's departure would bring to an end one of the most successful managerial reigns in English football history.

Since the 55-year-old's appointment in 2016, City have won 20 trophies including six Premier League titles and the Champions League.

Guardiola's former assistant Enzo Maresca is understood to have been lined up to replace him, having been out of work since leaving Chelsea at the start of the year.

C.Cassis--PC