Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will step down at the end of the 2025/26 season, bringing an end to one of the most successful eras in English football history.
The announcement was officially confirmed on Friday ahead of City’s final Premier League match of the season against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium.
Guardiola leaves after 10 remarkable years in charge of the club, during which he transformed Manchester City into a dominant force in both English and European football. Under his leadership, City won 20 major trophies, including multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups and the club’s first-ever UEFA Champions League title in 2023 during their historic treble-winning campaign.
Despite narrowly missing out on the Premier League title to Arsenal this season, Guardiola guided City to both the FA Cup and League Cup trophies, ensuring his final campaign still ended with silverware.
Manchester City confirmed that Guardiola will remain connected to the club by taking up an ambassadorial role within the City Football Group after his departure.
In an emotional farewell statement, Guardiola reflected on his journey with the club and the city of Manchester.
“When I arrived, my first interview was with Noel Gallagher. I walked out thinking, ‘Okay… Noel is here? This will be fun,’” Guardiola said.
“And what a time we have had together. Don’t ask me the reasons I’m leaving. There is no reason, but deep inside, I know it’s my time. Nothing is eternal.”
The Spanish coach also paid tribute to the resilience and spirit of the people of Manchester, referencing difficult moments such as the Manchester Arena attack and the loss of his mother during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Remember the Manchester Arena attack, when this city showed the world what strength actually looks like? Not anger. Not fear. Just love. Community. Togetherness,” he said.
Guardiola thanked the fans, players, staff and club leadership for supporting him throughout his decade-long journey.
“What we have done, we have done it for all of you,” he added. “You don’t know it yet, but you are leaving a legacy.”
His departure marks the end of an era for Manchester City and the Premier League, with Guardiola widely regarded as one of the greatest football managers of all time.
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