Pep Guardiola has confirmed he will leave Manchester City at the end of the season, bringing an end to a ten-year reign that delivered six Premier League titles, the Champions League, three FA Cups and five Carabao Cups. The 54-year-old Catalan informed the club of his decision several weeks ago, with his final match set to be Sunday's home fixture against Aston Villa.
Speaking at a press conference, Guardiola said: 'It's the time. It's a process that I have felt for a while. The club respects me an unbelievable amount for the decision. I think the club needs a new manager, new energy, these incredible players we have right now and start to write another chapter.' He added that he plans to rest and has no new job lined up.
Enzo Maresca, who left Chelsea in January, is expected to be confirmed as Guardiola's successor and is already working on his succession plan. City have announced that the Etihad Stadium's north stand will be renamed 'The Pep Guardiola Stand', with a statue of the manager also to be commissioned.
Sheikh Mansour said: 'He has made an indelible imprint on the DNA of the Club. One that is borne more from how he won than from the many trophies he lifted.' Sir Alex Ferguson sent a message of congratulations, which Guardiola described as meaning 'a lot' to him, calling Ferguson 'the greatest in this country'.
Guardiola's 593rd and final match in charge sees City host Aston Villa, who won the Europa League earlier this week. With nothing at stake for either side, Guardiola will hope to sign off with a victory. Betfair odds suggest Argentina as a possible next destination at 9/1, with PSG at 16/1.
