UMVA has learned that Pep Guardiola will be leaving Manchester City at the end of the season, marking the end of an era for the club.
The 55-year-old manager has been at the helm of City since 2016, accumulating an impressive 17 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, the Champions League, three FA Cups, and five EFL Cups.
Guardiola's departure was confirmed after a meeting with the club, and his farewell game will be at home to Aston Villa on the final day of the Premier League season this Sunday.
As Guardiola prepares to leave, he reflected on his time at City, saying, "When I arrived, my first interview was with Noel Gallagher. I walked out thinking, ‘Okay… Noel is here? This will be fun. 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."
Guardiola expressed his gratitude to the fans, players, and staff, stating, "Players don’t forget – every single instant, moment, me, my staff, this club, everything. What we have done, we have done it for all of you. And you have been just exceptional."
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Enzo Maresca, who left Chelsea in January, has already held talks with City to replace Guardiola as manager.
Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak praised Guardiola, saying, "Over the last ten years honesty and trust have formed the bedrock on which we have navigated every situation together with Pep – always understanding that we could find the right answer together."
Manchester City chief executive officer Ferran Soriano added, "We have been privileged to work alongside Pep Guardiola for 10 years. We have witnessed his greatness and dedication, but also enjoyed his companionship, his friendship and humanity."
Guardiola's legacy at City will be remembered for years to come, with his impact on the club and the sport as a whole being felt for generations to come.
