Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor signs new three-year deal with WSL club

Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor has signed a new three-year contract with the Women’s Super League club.

His side are second in the WSL table, behind leaders Chelsea on goal difference.

“I think what we’re doing here and trying to achieve is a build and a long-term project of sustainability and success,” said Taylor, 51.

“Our ambition was always to be right at the top and we’ve done that.

“It’s taken a lot of hard work from a lot of people behind the scenes. The players have really bought in to what we’re trying to do and achieve.”

Taylor has been in charge of City for 131 games and won 97 of those.

City host Chelsea in the Women’s League Cup semi-finals on Thursday before a trip to Tottenham in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Sunday.

Analysis

BBC Sport’s Emma Sanders

Taylor came in for heavy criticism last season after a poor start to the campaign followed an upheaval in the summer with several key players leaving.

He called for time and patience as his side went through a transitional period and City gave him that, despite reservations from many outside the club.

That faith in Taylor has now paid off as City have had a strong 2023-24, playing some of the best football in the WSL and showing an identity under his leadership.

They are in position to challenge Chelsea for the WSL title and a 1-0 victory over them last month will no doubt have helped Taylor’s case in negotiations over a new deal, which is much deserved.

A new three-year deal is a statement from City regarding their trust in Taylor’s ability to win more silverware at a club with the resources to achieve much more than they have.

It is eight years since they last won a WSL title and Taylor’s main goal will be to end that wait. Until it happens, he will still have to face his critics.