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May 19, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Pep Guardiola Expected to Leave Manchester City After Trophy-Laden Tenure

AI Summary
Pep Guardiola is widely expected to step down as manager of Manchester City at the end of the 2025‑26 season after a decade of record‑breaking success. The club faces a decisive final league weekend while planning a celebration that could mark the end of an era.

Guardiola's Expected Exit and Final Matches

Sources close to the club say Pep Guardiola will likely announce his departure before the season concludes, with his last match anticipated to be the home game against Aston Villa on the final Premier League day. The club has not officially confirmed the reports, but insiders expect a formal statement before the end of May.

  • Final league fixture: Manchester City vs Aston Villa (home, Sunday)
  • Upcoming away match: Manchester City at Bournemouth (Tuesday)
  • Potential successor: former assistant Enzo Maresca, currently unattached after leaving Chelsea

Guardiola's Trophy Record at City

During his ten‑year spell, Guardiola has amassed an unprecedented collection of silverware:

  • Six Premier League titles
  • Three FA Cups (including the most recent 1‑0 win over Chelsea)
  • Five League Cups (the fifth secured in March)
  • One Champions League title

His latest achievements this season include a domestic treble chase, with the men’s team already holding the FA Cup and League Cup, while the women’s side have secured the Women’s Super League and can complete a double.

Potential Impact on City’s Title Race and Club Future

The timing of the departure adds pressure to the final league fixtures. Manchester City must win both remaining games to keep alive any chance of overtaking Arsenal, who will be crowned champions if they defeat Crystal Palace on Sunday. A change in management could also influence player morale and transfer strategy ahead of the next season.

Possible Scenarios After Guardiola’s Departure

Analysts see several pathways for the club:

  • Enzo Maresca could be appointed as head coach, continuing Guardiola’s tactical philosophy.
  • The club may promote from within, opting for a fresh direction while retaining the existing squad.
  • A high‑profile external candidate could be pursued, signalling a shift in long‑term strategy.

Regardless of the choice, Manchester City will host a celebration on 25 May for both the men’s and women’s teams, underscoring the breadth of success achieved under Guardiola’s tenure.