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Pep Guardiola to Leave Manchester City at Conclusion of Premier League Season

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Guardiola to Depart Manchester City After Aston Villa Clash

"Don't ask me the reasons I'm leaving. There is no reason, but deep inside, I know it's my time."
— Pep Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is set to depart the club following the team's final Premier League match against Aston Villa on Monday, concluding a ten-year tenure that began in 2016. The decision comes despite Guardiola having one year remaining on his contract, which was scheduled to run until June 2027.

Trophy Record

During his time at Manchester City, Guardiola won a total of 20 trophies. According to multiple reports, his record includes:

  • Six Premier League titles
  • Three FA Cup titles
  • Five League Cups
  • Three Community Shields
  • One UEFA Champions League (2023)
  • One FIFA Club World Cup (2023)
  • One UEFA Super Cup

This season, Manchester City won the FA Cup and the League Cup. The club has scheduled a parade for May 26 to celebrate these two trophies.

Championship Outcome

Manchester City's 1-1 draw with Bournemouth ended their chances of winning the Premier League title this season. Arsenal secured the championship after a 22-year wait, with City four points behind with one game remaining.

Guardiola congratulated Arsenal, manager Mikel Arteta, and their staff, stating: "I am pretty sure it will be special for him (Arteta). He put in a lot of effort and work. Congratulations to him."

Departure Announcement

In a statement, Guardiola said:

"Don't ask me the reasons I'm leaving. There is no reason, but deep inside, I know it's my time. Nothing is eternal... Eternal will be the feeling, the people, the memories, the love I have for my Manchester City."

When asked about his future before the FA Cup final, Guardiola said: "One more year of contract." After the match, when asked again, he responded "rumours?" then added "have a lovely evening" and left.

After the Bournemouth draw, Guardiola stated: "Allow me to talk with my chairman. I have one more year of contract. When I finish the season every time we talk about it."

He also said: "We will talk in the next days. I always said that when you are fighting for the titles ... and you decide to go, in the first moment there is a problem the players don't follow you any more."

Guardiola attributed the draw with Bournemouth to fatigue following the FA Cup final.

Planned Replacement

Multiple reports indicate that Enzo Maresca, former Chelsea manager and former Manchester City assistant, is widely expected to replace Guardiola.

Context

Guardiola's departure comes as the outcome of an investigation into over 100 alleged breaches of financial regulations by Manchester City is pending. The club was charged by the Premier League in February 2023, and an independent commission hearing concluded in December 2024. City denies the allegations.

Guardiola's Prior Career

Before joining Manchester City in 2016, Guardiola managed Barcelona (2008-2012) and Bayern Munich, winning multiple titles at both clubs.

Remaining Fixtures

Manchester City will face Aston Villa on Monday in Guardiola's final match as manager.

Post-Departure Role

According to one report, Guardiola will become a global ambassador for Manchester City.