News Focus
- Pep Guardiola confirms he will depart Manchester City at the end of the current season
- The Spanish coach states he requires a lengthy rest and will not take a new managerial post immediately
- During his ten-year tenure, he secured six Premier League titles and the club’s first Champions League trophy
- Manchester City will erect a statue outside the Etihad Stadium and rename a stand in his honour
- Barcelona boss Hansi Flick advised him to step away from the dugout to recover his energy
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has announced he will leave the club when the season concludes. His departure marks the end of a ten-year spell that transformed the club into a dominant force in English and European football.
The Catalan coach joined the Manchester outfit in 2016. Under his guidance, the team captured six domestic league championships and finally lifted the Champions League trophy. To recognise this legacy, the club will construct a statue at the stadium entrance and rename one of the stands after him.
Guardiola revealed that exhaustion influenced his decision. When asked if he was running out of energy, he replied affirmatively. He disclosed that he intends to take a prolonged sabbatical from coaching. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick had previously advised him to rest, and Guardiola confirmed he will follow that recommendation.
“I need to step away,” the coach explained. “I have no plans to train for a while. I am deeply satisfied and proud. This chapter has been the greatest experience of my career.”
In an emotional open letter to supporters, Guardiola reflected on his deep connection with the city. He thanked fans for their support during personal tragedies, including his mother’s death during the pandemic. He also praised the community’s resilience following the Manchester Arena attack and referenced the city’s industrial heritage.
The manager admitted he struggled with nerves when informing his players of his choice. However, he expressed eternal gratitude to the fans, staff, and his family.
“There is no single reason for my departure,” he wrote. “But I know deep down this is the right moment. Nothing lasts forever, though the memories will.”