Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney says he wants Pep Guardiola to stay at Manchester City beyond the current season. Speaking to BBC Sport, the current Plymouth Argyle head coach stated that Guardiola has set a benchmark for all other managers in the professional game.
Guardiola, who joined Manchester City in 2016, has won six Premier League titles and the Champions League during his tenure. Rooney believes the presence of the Spaniard is beneficial for the Premier League and English football. He noted that Guardiola's influence has changed the way teams approach the game across the country.
The Manchester City manager is out of contract at the end of the 2024-25 campaign. Although the club has not confirmed a renewal, Rooney argued that keeping such a high-calibre coach in England remains vital for the sport. Rooney added that even as a former rival, he admires the tactical standards Guardiola has established at the Etihad Stadium.