Pep Guardiola, the iconic manager of Manchester City, has confirmed his departure from the club after a successful 10-year reign. The 55-year-old Spanish professional football coach stated that the club needs "new energy" as he prepares to step down.
Guardiola's final game in charge will be against Aston Villa on Sunday at Etihad Stadium. Over his decade-long tenure, Guardiola has led City to an impressive haul of 17 major trophies. This includes six Premier League titles and a Champions League victory - achievements that have firmly established him as one of the most successful managers in football history.
In recognition of his significant impact on the club, Manchester City is set to name its newly developed north stand after him. The stand will be fully open for the first time during their closing game against Europa League winners Villa. Additionally, a statue commemorating Guardiola will be erected and positioned near this stand. BBC Sport reported earlier this week that preparations for Guardiola's departure were underway a year before his contract was due to end.
Emotional farewell
Guardiola shared news about his decision with his squad last Friday morning but confessed that delivering this news was challenging for him. He admitted being more nervous than ever while making this announcement and described it as "a disaster".
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City manager, said:
"Ten years is a lot of time and I think the club needs a new manager, new energy, these incredible players we have right now and start to write another chapter," he said on Friday during his final pre-match press conference.
"I feel I would not have the energy [in the future] required to daily, every three days, to fight for the title, being in front of the players. After 10 years, it is good to shake, to move, different faces - it's really good for everyone. If I did not believe that, if they don't sack me, I would stay here. But I think it is the perfect moment, perfect time."
In a video announcement published earlier on Friday, he said: "Nothing is eternal if it was I would be here." He added that what would remain eternal are feelings, people memories and love he has for Manchester City. Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca who worked under Guardiola at City is currently tipped as the frontrunner to replace him. This confirmation comes three days after Arsenal beat them to clinch their first Premier League title since 2004 following a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth.
Despite the disappointment, Guardiola will leave on a high note having led City to FA Cup and League Cup victories in his final campaign. He confirmed that he would take a break from coaching but will begin a global ambassadorial role with the City Football Group (CFG) and offer technical advice to its member clubs. Pep Guardiola's departure marks the end of an era for Manchester City. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations as they strive to replicate his success under new leadership.
