Guardiola set to leave Manchester City

Pep Guardiola is reportedly preparing to leave Manchester City at the end of the season, bringing an end to one of the most successful managerial eras in English football history.

Multiple British media outlets reported on Sunday that Guardiola is expected to step down after City’s remaining Premier League fixtures against Bournemouth and Aston Villa.

The reports surfaced just days after Guardiola guided City to a 1-0 victory over Chelsea FC in the FA Cup final at Wembley, courtesy of a late goal from Antoine Semenyo.

If confirmed, the FA Cup triumph could mark Guardiola’s final trophy with City after a decade at the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola joined Manchester City in 2016 from FC Bayern Munich and transformed the club into one of Europe’s dominant sides.

During his tenure, City won six Premier League titles, including four consecutive league crowns, as well as the club’s first-ever UEFA Champions League title in 2023. His trophy haul also includes multiple FA Cups, League Cups, and Community Shields.

Reports suggest former City assistant and ex-Chelsea FC manager Enzo Maresca has emerged as the leading candidate to replace him.

However, no official confirmation has yet been issued by Manchester City, and Guardiola himself recently dismissed speculation about an imminent exit, pointing out that he still has one year left on his contract until 2027.

According to reports, City have already begun informing key sponsors and stakeholders ahead of a possible announcement, while celebrations are reportedly being planned during an open-top bus parade in Manchester.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Guardiola remains focused on City’s slim hopes of retaining the Premier League title, with Arsenal still leading the race heading into the final stretch of the season.