Pep Guardiola is reportedly preparing to leave Manchester City at the end of the season, bringing one of the most successful managerial eras in Premier League history close to its final chapter.
The Spanish coach has spent a decade at City, turning the club into the dominant force in English football and one of the strongest teams in Europe. Under Guardiola, City became known for their positional play, control of possession, tactical flexibility and relentless winning mentality.
Although Guardiola has not fully confirmed his departure in public, reports in England suggest he has already informed the Manchester City squad that this will be his final season in charge. After City’s recent draw with Bournemouth, Guardiola said any final decision about his future would be discussed with chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and chief executive Ferran Soriano.
The expected replacement is Enzo Maresca, a coach who already understands the Manchester City system. Maresca previously worked under Guardiola as part of City’s coaching structure and later built his own reputation as a head coach. His connection with Guardiola’s football ideas makes him a logical choice for a club that wants continuity rather than a complete tactical reset. Multiple reports indicate that City have identified Maresca as their preferred successor, with the Italian expected to take over if Guardiola leaves this summer.
From a football perspective, the appointment would make sense. Maresca is familiar with City’s possession-based style, positional structure and high technical demands. However, replacing Guardiola is one of the hardest jobs in world football. City are not simply replacing a manager; they are replacing the figure who shaped the club’s modern identity.
If Guardiola leaves, Manchester City will enter a new era. The challenge for Maresca will be clear: protect the system, refresh the squad, and prove that City’s dominance can survive beyond Guardiola.