In a stunning admission that will send shockwaves through the Premier League, Pep Guardiola has openly declared his intention to leave Manchester City, stating he is "closer to leaving than staying" beyond his current deal.
The iconic manager, who has masterminded an unprecedented era of success at the Etihad Stadium, dropped the bombshell during a press conference in the United States, leaving fans and pundits alike reeling.
The End of an Era Looms at the Etihad
Guardiola's revelation cuts to the heart of the club's future. His current £20 million-a-year contract is set to expire in the summer of 2025, and for the first time, the 53-year-old has publicly acknowledged that his departure is on the horizon.
"The reality is I am closer to leaving than staying," Guardiola stated with a candour rarely seen from the typically guarded manager. He elaborated, "We have talked with the club and my feeling is that I will stay next season. During the season we will talk. But eight or nine years - we will see."
A Legacy of Unparalleled Success
Since his arrival in 2016, Guardiola has transformed Manchester City into a global footballing powerhouse. Under his guidance, the club has secured:
- 6 Premier League titles, including four consecutive championships
- 2 FA Cup victories
- 4 League Cup wins
- The coveted UEFA Champions League trophy
- A historic Treble in the 2022/23 season
This period of dominance has cemented his status as one of the greatest managers in the history of the English game.
Family and Fatigue: The Reasons Behind the Decision
Guardiola cited the immense personal toll of the job and a desire for a new challenge as key factors in his thinking. "It is a long time. I know it is a question of time. I feel that. I have a feeling that I am arriving at the end."
He also hinted that his next move would likely be far from the intense pressure of top-level European football, suggesting a move to international management or a less demanding league could be on the cards.
The search for his successor will now become a paramount concern for the City hierarchy, tasked with the near-impossible job of replacing a modern legend.
