Guardiola signs Barcelona extension

Guardiola's future had been uncertain (GETTY IMAGES)

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has agreed a one-year contract extension with the Catalan giants.

The 39-year-old, whose existing deal was due to run out this summer, has ended increasing speculation about his future by committing himself to Barca until the end of next season.

Guardiola was promoted from coach of Barca's B side to his current position in the summer of 2008 following the departure of Frank Rijkaard, and last year he led the club to an unprecedented six-trophy haul.

Having became the first Spanish side to win the treble of Champions League, Primera Division and Copa del Rey during the 2008/09 season, Barca then added the Spanish and European Super Cups before completing the set by winning the Club World Cup in December.

The agreement will not be signed until this summer, when the club will be holding presidential elections.

The news was announced at a press conference at the Nou Camp today which was attended by current president Joan Laporta, Guardiola, technical secretary Txiki Begiristain and vice-president of sport Rafael Yuste.

Laporta said: "We are here to announce that Pep Guardiola will be the coach of Barca for another year. The contract will be signed with the new president, but we have Pep's word that he will be the coach.

"I think that is very good news for everyone associated with Barcelona because we all wanted Pep to continue.

"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."