Pep Guardiola announces departure from Manchester City
Pep Guardiola has confirmed he’s leaving Manchester City after an incredible decade at the helm, with Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa set to be his farewell match, reports BritPanorama.
The 55-year-old Catalan won’t be stepping away from the City family entirely; he will take on a new role as Global Ambassador for City Football Group, the club’s parent company.
This position will see him offering technical guidance to clubs across the group’s portfolio, including Girona in Spain, New York City in MLS, and Troyes in France.
The announcement follows days of mounting speculation surrounding his future at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola’s tenure has seen an extraordinary haul of 20 major trophies since he joined in July 2016, making him the most successful manager in the club’s history.
His achievements include six Premier League titles and an unforgettable Champions League triumph in 2023, alongside three FA Cups and five Carabao Cups. Notably, he completed a historic treble in the 2022/23 season, reiterating his impact on the club.
Guardiola’s farewell message was deeply personal. “When I arrived, my first interview was with Noel Gallagher. I walked out thinking, ‘OK… Noel is here? This will be fun. And what a time we have had together,” he said. He expressed a sense of completion, stating, “Don’t ask me the reasons I’m leaving. There is no reason, but deep inside, I know it’s my time.”
He signed off with a nod to Gallagher, saying, “Noel… I was right. It has been so f****** fun. Love you all.” Although his contract was originally set to run until summer 2027, Guardiola has negotiated an exit 12 months early.
As for his successor, former assistant Enzo Maresca appears to be the leading candidate for the role. Maresca has been without a position since leaving Chelsea earlier this year but is well regarded for his experience by Guardiola’s side.
Guardiola’s legacy at City is monumental, shaping the club’s trajectory during his time. His departure marks the end of an era, but his influence will surely resonate within the corridors of the Etihad for years to come.
