Pep Guardiola has announced his departure from Manchester City after a decade of unprecedented success, confirming he will take a break from coaching. The 55-year-old Catalan said he felt his energy levels declining and needed time away from the game. 'I will be out for a while,' he stated, ruling out an immediate return to management.
Guardiola leaves City with 17 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the club's first Champions League in 2023. He described his tenure as 'the experience of my life' and expressed gratitude for the support he received. The club will rename the extended North Stand of the Etihad Stadium the Pep Guardiola Stand, with a statue to be erected in his honour.
Guardiola revealed that the decision to leave was gradual. 'It's not waking up and think: now is the time to leave. I felt it for a while,' he said. He will take up an ambassadorial role within the City Football Group but will have no involvement in football decisions. Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is expected to replace him.
Reflecting on his legacy, Guardiola hopes fans enjoyed watching his team. 'The moments were fun – moments we played really good and others not,' he said. He singled out the first Premier League title and the Champions League as highlights. Sir Alex Ferguson left a voicemail congratulating him on his decade at the club.
