Guardiola likely to depart Manchester City despite stating otherwise

Pep Guardiola is expected to leave Manchester City F.C. at the end of the season, according to reports, despite the Spanish manager insisting that he plans to remain at the club.

Sources cited by BBC Sport said preparations for Guardiola’s departure are already taking place behind the scenes at the Etihad Stadium, with players and staff reportedly anticipating the conclusion of his decade-long tenure. Club officials are also said to be considering how to honour the most successful manager in Manchester City’s history.

Although City maintain that Guardiola is under contract until 2027 and remain hopeful he will stay, former Chelsea F.C. manager Enzo Maresca has emerged as the leading candidate to replace him. Maresca previously worked as part of Guardiola’s coaching staff at the club.

Since joining Manchester City in 2016, Guardiola has transformed the club into one of Europe’s dominant football forces, winning 20 major trophies. His achievements include six Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League crown, three FA Cup trophies and five EFL Cup titles.

The 55-year-old could still add another Premier League title this season, having already guided City to victory in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

Speculation over Guardiola’s future has intensified in recent months, but he publicly dismissed the rumours before Saturday’s FA Cup final.

“Yeah. I am here, I have a contract,” Guardiola said when asked whether he would remain in charge next season.

Despite that assurance, reports suggest Manchester City are quietly preparing for the possibility that one of football’s most influential managers may soon bring his remarkable era at the club to an end.

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