Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has officially announced he will be stepping down from the role at the end of the season, releasing a video on social media on Friday, ahead of his side’s final Premier League game against Aston Villa on Sunday.
The Spaniard has been in charge of the Citizens since 2016, becoming their most successful manager in the club’s history after winning the Champions League, six Premier League titles, and a haul of domestic cups.
In the video, he said: “Don’t ask me the reasons why I am leaving. There is no reason.
“But deep inside, I know it’s my time.”
“Eternal will be the feeling. The people, the memories, the love I have for my Manchester City.
“…We work and we suffer. We fought and we did things our own way.
“…As my time comes to an end, be happy. Oasis are back again. So, ladies and gentlemen, thank you for trusting me. Thank you for pushing me. Thank you for loving me.”
Individual awards for his achievements at the Etihad also arrived, as he was named Premier League manager of the season five times and the UEFA men’s coach of the year in 2023.
During his time with Manchester City, Guardiola had a win percentage of 70.3%, and with 269 league wins, he is 46 clear of any other manager in Europe, with Diego Simeone second with 223.
In the Premier League, he has the fourth highest amount of wins, despite fewer games and two of his title-winning seasons (2017/18 and 2018/19) stand amongst the best ever seen.
City are expected to name Enzo Maresca as his successor after the former Chelsea and Leicester City coach spent time as Guardiola’s assistant at the Etihad Stadium.
He will not be leaving the club altogether, however, as the 55-year-old also stated he will be taking up the role of Global Ambassador.
