Manchester City have officially confirmed that manager Pep Guardiola will step down this summer, bringing an end to one of the greatest managerial eras in football history.
The club announced Guardiola’s departure with a tribute celebrating his 10 years at the Etihad Stadium, describing him as a “Game Changer" and “History Maker” after a decade that transformed Manchester City into a dominant force in English and European football.
The Catalan coach, who arrived in Manchester in July 2016, leaves as the most successful manager in the club’s history after winning 20 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League crown, two FA Cups, and multiple domestic cups.
Despite stepping down as head coach, Guardiola will remain connected to the City Football Group in a new role as Global Ambassador, where he will provide technical advice to clubs within the group and contribute to special projects and collaborations.
In an emotional farewell statement released by the club, Guardiola reflected on his journey in Manchester and the bond he built with the city and its people.
“When I arrived, my first interview was with Noel Gallagher. I walked out thinking, ‘Okay… Noel is here? This will be fun,’” 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. Eternal will be the feeling, the people, the memories, the love I have for Manchester City.”
Guardiola also spoke about how Manchester itself shaped his connection with the club during his decade in England.
“This is a city built from work. From graft. You see it in the colour of the bricks. From people who clocked in early, stayed late. The factories. The unions. The music. The Industrial Revolution and how this changed the world. I grew to understand that, and my teams did too,” he said.
“We worked. We suffered. We fought. And we did things our own way.”
The Spaniard paid tribute to the supporters for standing by the team through triumphs and setbacks alike.
“Trips to Bournemouth when we lost the Premier League, and you were there. Trips to Istanbul, when you were there too,” Guardiola added.
He also referenced difficult personal and emotional moments during his time in Manchester, including the Manchester Arena attack and the loss of his mother during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Remember the Manchester Arena attack, when this city showed the world what strength actually looks like? Not anger. Not fear. Just love. Community. Togetherness. A city united,” he said.
“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.”
Guardiola ended his farewell with a heartfelt message to the club and supporters.
“So as my time comes to an end, be happy. Oasis are back again,” he said.
“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for trusting me. Thank you for pushing me. Thank you for loving me.”
Follow the latest news on Google News
