Pep Guardiola to Leave Manchester City After 10 Years

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola will leave his position in the summer of 2026, the club’s press service reported on 22 May.

Guardiola took charge of Manchester City in July 2016 and, over ten years in charge, won 20 major trophies, becoming the most successful manager in the club’s history.

After stepping down as head coach, he will remain within the City Football Group as a global ambassador. In his new role, Guardiola will advise clubs within the group on technical matters, take part in selected projects and collaborations.

In a statement, the coach said his decision to leave was linked to the completion of a phase in his career.

“Do not ask me about the reasons for leaving. There is no reason, but deep inside I know: my time has come. Nothing lasts forever,” Guardiola said, thanking players, club staff, fans and his family for their support.

Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak said the foundation of the decade-long partnership with the coach was trust and professional integrity. He added that Guardiola had a significant impact not only on the club but also on modern football as a whole.

During his tenure, Guardiola won six Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League, three FA Cups, five League Cups, the FIFA Club World Cup, the UEFA Super Cup and three FA Community Shields.

Under his leadership, Manchester City set several records, including 100 points in the 2017/18 season, a continental treble in 2022/23, and four consecutive Premier League titles.

His final match in charge will be against Aston Villa. In total, he managed 593 matches as Manchester City head coach.

Following his departure, Italian coach Enzo Maresca is reported to be a potential candidate to replace him.

It is also noted that Guardiola’s departure will indirectly affect Uzbek defender Abdukodir Khusanov, who is expected to continue his career at the club under a new head coach.