Guardiola Leaving Man City After Season, Maresca Next Manager

Pep Guardiola is leaving Manchester City after the season ends May 24, 2026. This follows 20 trophies won during his 10-year stay.
By Newsroom | Football, Manchester |

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has informed his players of his intention to leave the club following the season's conclusion. This confirmation came via a late-night group call with the squad on Monday, May 19th, 2026, reportedly in response to news of his planned exit leaking to the public. The Spaniard is set to depart at the end of the season, bringing to a close a decade-long tenure marked by significant domestic success.

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Pep Guardiola confirmed his departure from Manchester City to his players via a late-night group call on Monday, May 19th, 2026, after reports of his impending exit became public. He is expected to leave following the team's final league fixture against Aston Villa on Sunday, May 24th, 2026.

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Succession Plans Emerge

Sources indicate that Enzo Maresca, formerly an assistant coach at City and recently departed from Chelsea, has agreed to take over as Guardiola's successor. Maresca's prior association with the club and his understanding of Guardiola's tactical framework are cited as key factors in his selection. Chelsea is reportedly in line for substantial compensation from City due to Maresca's contract situation.

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A Decade of Dominance

Guardiola's time at Manchester City has been characterized by an unprecedented period of achievement. During his tenure, the club has secured 20 trophies, including multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups. His impact has been described as a transformation of the club's fortunes and a significant influence on English football. The team recently secured the FA Cup on Saturday, May 17th, 2026, defeating Chelsea 1-0 at Wembley.

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Context and Fallout

The timing of this announcement follows a period of intense speculation surrounding Guardiola's future. The leaked information reportedly left the manager "furious," prompting the immediate player call. Guardiola has not publicly denied the reports and stated he would discuss his future with chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak in the coming days. The club has declined to comment on the matter officially. Guardiola is expected to address these reports directly when speaking to the media ahead of his side's upcoming fixture against Bournemouth.

Read More: Pep Guardiola leaving Manchester City in May 2026 after 20 trophies

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When did Pep Guardiola tell his players he is leaving Manchester City?
Pep Guardiola informed his Manchester City players about his departure on a late-night group call on Monday, May 19th, 2026. This happened after news of his planned exit was leaked to the public.
Q: Who will be the next manager of Manchester City after Pep Guardiola?
Enzo Maresca, who previously worked as an assistant coach at Manchester City and recently left Chelsea, has reportedly agreed to take over as the new manager. His past experience with the club is seen as a key factor.
Q: How many trophies did Pep Guardiola win with Manchester City?
During his decade-long tenure, Pep Guardiola led Manchester City to win an impressive 20 trophies. This includes multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and League Cups, marking a highly successful period for the club.
Q: Why did Pep Guardiola confirm his departure so suddenly?
The confirmation came after reports about his planned exit were leaked, reportedly making the manager furious. He decided to inform his players directly following the leak.
Q: What is the final match for Pep Guardiola with Manchester City?
Pep Guardiola's final match with Manchester City is expected to be their last league fixture of the season against Aston Villa on Sunday, May 24th, 2026.