Skip to content

Loaning Hart out was Guardiola's 'toughest decision' as City boss

Catherine Ivill / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said loaning former first-string goalkeeper Joe Hart to West Ham was the toughest decision of his managerial tenure at the club so far, adding that he will make another decision regarding Hart's future if West Ham doesn't keep him on a permanent deal.

The 31-year-old England international was first sent to Torino on loan and then to West Ham, replaced by newcomers Claudio Bravo and new first-choice shot-stopper Ederson as Guardiola worked to implement his preferred style at the team. While Guardiola has brought on many a new player, Hart's treatment wasn't embraced by supporters at first, as he was a fan favourite at the club.

"I think that was the toughest decision I've made since I was a manager," Guardiola said after City's 4-1 demolition of West Ham on Sunday, as quoted by ESPN FC. "He was an incredible professional when we were together, and there are no doubts about his quality.

"But I am here to make decisions - sometimes good, sometimes not. We will find out in the future. He's our player and, if he does not continue here next season, we will talk. We are going to speak with the club and will take the right decision for him."

Despite twice being sent on loan, Hart has yet to be sold by City and still has one year left on his contract. His loan with West Ham includes a buy option, though manager David Moyes hasn't yet announced a decision regarding Hart's future at the London Stadium. Since Moyes took over from Slaven Bilic, Hart has played second fiddle to Spanish 'keeper Adrian.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox