Guardiola Says “It’s My Time” as Manchester City Confirm Departure

Manchester City have officially confirmed that manager Pep Guardiola will leave the club at the end of the 2025/2026 season, bringing an end to one of the most successful managerial eras in modern football.

The Premier League club announced that Guardiola’s final game in charge will be against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, marking the conclusion of his decade-long stay in Manchester.

The announcement came just days after City surrendered the English Premier League title to Arsenal following a crucial draw against Bournemouth, ending Guardiola’s hopes of extending the club’s domestic dominance.

Guardiola, who joined City in June 2016 from Bayern Munich, transformed the club into a dominant force in English and European football, winning 20 trophies during his time at the Etihad.

Speaking on his decision to step down, the Spanish tactician described the move as deeply personal, insisting that he simply felt the time was right to move on.

“There is no reason, but deep inside, I know it’s my time,” Guardiola said.

“And what a time we have had together. Don’t ask me the reasons I’m leaving. There is no reason, but deep inside, I know it’s my time. Nothing is eternal. If it was, I would be here. Eternal will be the feeling, the people, the memories, the love I have for my Manchester City,” he added.

During his time at City, Guardiola established himself as the most successful manager in the club’s history. He won six Premier League titles, including an unprecedented four consecutive league triumphs that cemented City’s dominance in English football.

The 55-year-old also guided City to their long-awaited UEFA Champions League triumph in 2023, completing a historic treble-winning campaign that included the Premier League title and the FA Cup.

Guardiola further captured five Carabao Cup titles and three FA Cups during his stay, with his latest FA Cup success coming after a 1-0 victory over Chelsea FC at Wembley Stadium last week.

Remarkably, City remained unbeaten in domestic cup competitions this season, lifting both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup despite narrowly missing out on the league title.

His departure is expected to trigger a major transition at Manchester City as the club prepares for life after one of football’s most influential managers.

Guardiola’s legacy at the Etihad remains firmly secured, not only for the trophies won but also for redefining the club’s football philosophy and elevating City into a global football powerhouse.