Pep Guardiola, one of the greatest coaches in English football history, will step down as Manchester City manager after Sunday's final Premier League match of the season against Aston Villa. Guardiola will conclude a remarkable ten-year tenure at the Etihad Stadium, during which he has secured 20 trophies and transformed City into one of the world's elite clubs.
Guardiola's Legacy at Manchester City
Under Guardiola's leadership, City have won six league titles, including an unprecedented four in succession, and claimed the club's first Champions League triumph. It is understood that City have begun informing sponsor partners of the imminent announcement. The news has been an open secret among those close to Guardiola.
The official confirmation is expected on Sunday, paving the way for an open-top bus parade on Monday to celebrate his extraordinary impact on English football. The parade will commence at Manchester's Northern Quarter at 4pm and conclude outside the Colin Bell Stand reception at the Etihad Stadium an hour later.
Departure Rumours and Succession Plans
Speculation about Guardiola's departure has been rife for months, as the Catalan coach considered ending his reign at City. He has one year remaining on his contract, which he has frequently referenced, and it remains possible he could stay at the club in another capacity. Leading candidates to replace him include Enzo Maresca, the former Chelsea manager, and Vincent Kompany, the Bayern Munich boss.
City secured the FA Cup with a 1-0 victory over Chelsea at Wembley on Saturday and are still competing with Arsenal for the Premier League title. They face Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Tuesday before hosting Aston Villa on Sunday.
