Vincent Kompany scored the goal that has put Manchester City on the brink of the Premier League title – but will still have to wait to learn if he has a future at the club.
Pep Guardiola insists no decision will be made until after the FA Cup Final in two weeks’ time.
It’s believed City are ready to hand their veteran captain a one-year extension, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the season.
But Guardiola confirmed a final decision is yet to be made over the 33-year-old, whose stunning 30-yard strike secured a 1-0 win against Leicester on Monday night.
The victory moved City a point clear of Liverpool at the top of the table with one game to go.
But Guardiola refused to allow sentiment to rule his mind, telling Kompany a contract decision will have to wait.
The City manager said: “Finish the season and after we are going to talk. We spoke with him three weeks ago, one month ago. We spoke fluently two or three times.
“We are going to take a beer together and decide what is best - especially for him and for the club.
“We spoke with him and his agent. At the end of the season we are going to talk to him clearly.”
Guardiola wants to reinforce his defence with Nicolas Otamendi considering his future after dropping down the pecking order at the Etihad.
Kompany’s injury record over the last four seasons raises serious concerns about his long-term fitness, but Guardiola values his influence in City’s dressing room.
He has also been an outstanding performer in key games this season, such as January’s crucial win against Liverpool, which kept City in the title race.
Guardiola added: He is an incredible human being and he has helped me a lot. Always I was sad I could not use him too much, but we have always known we could count on him for his personality.
“This club is what it is because of people like Vincent. At the end of the season, after the FA Cup we will decide the best for both parties.”
