Pep Guardiola has confirmed he will leave Manchester City at the end of the season, bringing one of the most influential managerial eras in English football history to a close.
Manchester City announced that Sunday's Premier League fixture against Aston Villa will be Guardiola's final match in charge after 10 years at the Etihad Stadium. The decision follows several days of growing speculation and ends a period that transformed City into one of world football's dominant forces.
Since arriving in 2016, Guardiola has overseen a remarkable era that delivered 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles and a long-awaited Champions League crown.
Pep Guardiola says “I know it’s my time”
In an emotional farewell message, Guardiola explained that his decision was driven by instinct rather than a single event.
“Don’t ask me the reasons I’m leaving. There is no reason, but deep inside, I know it’s my time.” — Pep Guardiola
The Manchester City manager also reflected on his first experiences at the club and the relationships formed during his decade in charge.
“Nothing is eternal. Eternal will be the feeling, the people, the memories, the love I have for my Manchester City.” — Pep Guardiola
Having followed Manchester City’s evolution under Guardiola over the years, perhaps the biggest achievement was not simply winning trophies but changing expectations. Sustained excellence became normal rather than exceptional.
However, the full scale of that legacy may only become clearer with time.
Guardiola leaves behind one of football’s great managerial records
Guardiola arrived at City with an elite reputation following major success with Barcelona and Bayern Munich. He leaves having elevated Manchester City into a club capable of sustained domestic and European success.
| Pep Guardiola at Manchester City | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Years in charge | 10 |
| Total trophies | 20 |
| Premier League titles | 6 |
| Champions League titles | 1 |
| Record points season | 100 points |
Source: Manchester City records – 21 May 2026
Highlights of Guardiola’s reign included the 2023 treble, a domestic treble in 2019 and the historic 100-point Premier League campaign in 2018.
Reports also suggest former assistant Enzo Maresca has emerged as a leading candidate to replace him.
Key Points
- Pep Guardiola will leave Manchester City at the end of the season
- Sunday's match against Aston Villa will be his final game
- Guardiola won 20 trophies during his decade in charge
- Manchester City secured six Premier League titles under him
- Enzo Maresca is reportedly among leading candidates to succeed him
What's next
Manchester City now enter one of the most important transitions in the club's modern history.
Replacing Guardiola was always likely to become one of football's most difficult tasks regardless of timing. Recruitment decisions, tactical continuity and dressing-room stability could all become major themes during the summer.
For Guardiola himself, a new role as global ambassador for City Football Group awaits, but attention will initially remain fixed on his final farewell.
Is Pep Guardiola the greatest manager in Premier League history?
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