Guardiola Confirms Manchester City Exit After 10-Year Reign

Pep Guardiola has confirmed he will leave Manchester City this weekend, bringing an end to his 10-year spell in charge of the Premier League club.

The Spanish manager will take charge of City for the final time on Sunday when they face Aston Villa in the Premier League.

Guardiola leaves the Etihad Stadium as one of the most successful managers in the club’s history, having won 17 major trophies. His final trophy came after City defeated Chelsea to lift the FA Cup, although he narrowly missed out on winning a seventh Premier League title before his departure.

In an emotional farewell message, Guardiola reflected on his decade at the club, the city of Manchester, the supporters, his players, staff, and the personal moments that shaped his time in England.

He recalled arriving at City and filming his first video with Noel Gallagher, saying he immediately knew the journey would be special.

“Don’t ask me the reasons why I’m leaving. There is no reason. But deep inside I know it’s my time. Nothing is eternal,” Guardiola said.

He added that while his time at the club was ending, the memories, love, and connection he shared with Manchester City would remain forever.

Guardiola praised Manchester as a city built on hard work, resilience, and unity, saying those values also defined his teams during his time at the club.

He also remembered difficult moments, including the Manchester Arena attack and the death of his mother during the COVID-19 pandemic, saying the club and the people of Manchester helped carry him through painful periods.

The City boss thanked his players, staff, family, club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak, and the supporters for their trust and support throughout his tenure.

“What we have done, we have done it for all of you. And you have been just exceptional,” he said.

Guardiola’s contract was initially expected to run until the summer of 2027, but he has now agreed to step down 12 months early.

Former Manchester City assistant Enzo Maresca, who has been without a job since leaving Chelsea in January, is reportedly among the leading candidates to replace him.