It's official: Guardiola to leave City after 10 years

The era is over. The most important era in Manchester City’s history is over – Pep Guardiola is leaving the club. After six Premier League titles, one UEFA Champions League, three FA Cups, five League Cups, one FIFA Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup and three FA Community Shields, the Spaniard officially announced something which we all knew from last week – he is stepping aside after 10 years. The club officially released this information and announced that Guardiola will by taking up a role as a Global Ambassador. The role will see him giving technical advice to the clubs in the group, working on specific projects and collaborations.

In a lengthy message, the Spaniard thanked everybody.

“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. 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….We worked. We suffered. We fought. And we did things our own way. Our way. Hard work comes in many forms. Trips to Bournemouth, when we lost the Premier League, and you were there. Trips to Istanbul, when you were there, too...Remember, losing my mum during COVID and feeling this club carry me through it. The fans, the staff, the people of Manchester, you gave me strength when I needed it most. Cris, my kids, my whole family, you were there as always. Khaldoon, you were there too. 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. You don’t know it yet, but you are leaving a legacy. So as my time comes to an end, be happy. Oasis are back again. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for trusting me. Thank you for pushing me. Thank you for loving me. Love you all” wrote Pep.

Guardiola on his departure: "Let me talk to my chairman"

Guardiola masterminded a domestic Treble in 2019 and then became only the second coach of an English team to complete the league, FA Cup and Champions League Treble four years later. His contract was valid until 2027 but he decided to quit now, and reportedly, he will take a break from coaching. In the meantime, his former assistant Enzo Maresca will take over as the next manager.