Pep Guardiola Confirms Manchester City Exit After Historic 10-Year Era

United Kingdom, 22 May 2026 - The end of an era has officially arrived at Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola has confirmed that he will step down as Manchester City manager at the end of the 2025/26 season, bringing to a close one of the most dominant managerial reigns in football history. The announcement was made on Friday, May 22, through an emotional statement released by the club and Guardiola himself.

After arriving at the Etihad Stadium in 2016, Guardiola transformed Manchester City into a global football powerhouse, redefining English football with his possession-based philosophy, tactical innovation, and relentless pursuit of perfection.

In his farewell message, Guardiola reflected on his decade-long journey with deep emotion, admitting that the time had come for him to walk away.

“Deep inside, I know it’s my time. Nothing is eternal.”

He also thanked the supporters, players, staff, and the city of Manchester for what he described as an unforgettable chapter of his life.

Manchester City later confirmed that although Guardiola will leave his role as head coach, he will remain connected to the wider City Football Group as a Global Ambassador.

When Guardiola joined Manchester City from FC Bayern Munich in 2016, expectations were already enormous following his legendary success at FC Barcelona.

However, few could have predicted the scale of dominance that followed.

Under Guardiola, Manchester City evolved into arguably the greatest Premier League side of the modern era. His teams shattered records, dominated possession, scored goals at historic rates, and introduced a tactical blueprint that influenced clubs across England and Europe.

During his 10 seasons in charge, Guardiola won 20 major trophies with Manchester City, officially becoming the most successful manager in the club’s history.

Major Trophies Won

6 Premier League titles
5 League Cups
3 FA Cups
3 Community Shields
1 UEFA Champions League
1 UEFA Super Cup
1 FIFA Club World Cup

His greatest achievement came during the 2022/23 season when City completed a historic continental treble by winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League. Guardiola finally delivered the club’s first-ever Champions League title after defeating Inter Milan in the final.

Pep Guardiola did more than just win trophies.

He fundamentally changed how football is played in England.

From inverted full-backs and positional play to high pressing and fluid midfield rotations, Guardiola’s ideas became the benchmark for elite football. Managers across Europe adapted elements of his system, while Premier League clubs invested heavily to match City’s technical standards.

Under Guardiola, Manchester City recorded:

Who Could Replace Pep Guardiola?

Early reports strongly link former City assistant and ex-Chelsea F.C. manager Enzo Maresca with the role. Multiple outlets claim discussions are already advanced regarding a long-term appointment.

Maresca previously worked under Guardiola and is viewed as a coach who understands City’s tactical identity and football philosophy.

Manchester City are reportedly planning major tributes to honor Guardiola’s contribution to the club.

Reports indicate the club intends to:

Rename part of the Etihad Stadium after him
Commission a statue outside the stadium
Maintain his long-term involvement within City Football Group

Pep Guardiola leaves Manchester City as their greatest-ever manager and one of the most influential coaches football has ever seen.

Ten years. Twenty trophies. Countless records.

From the “Centurions” season to the historic treble-winning campaign, Guardiola’s Manchester City era will be remembered as one of the defining dynasties of modern football.