Pep Guardiola is set to bring a glittering decade with Manchester City to a close this summer, with his exit from the Etihad Stadium now confirmed ahead of the club's final day clash with Aston Villa. The City announced on Friday that he would be departing after ten years, despite having a year remaining on his contract. Guardiola has now spoken out in the aftermath of the news, sharing a video message to City players, staff, and fans.
Guardiola's Full Statement
Guardiola said: “When I arrived, my first interview was with Noel Gallagher. I walked out thinking, ‘Okay… Noel is here? This will be fun.’ 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, if it was, I would be here. Eternal will be the feeling, the people, the memories, the love I have for my Manchester City.
“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 Pankhursts. The unions. The music. Simply the Industrial Revolution and how this changed the world. And I think I grew to understand that, and my teams did too.
“We worked. We suffered. We fought. And we did things our own way. Our way.
“Hard work comes in many forms. Trips to Bournemouth, when we lost the Premier League, and you were there. Trips to Istanbul, when you were there, too.
“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.
“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. Cris, my kids, my whole family, you were there as always. Khaldoon, you were there too.
“Players don’t forget - every single instant, moment, me, my staff, this club, everything. What we have done, we have done it for all of you. And you have been just exceptional. You don’t know it yet, but you are leaving a legacy.
“So as my time comes to an end, be happy. Oasis are back again. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for trusting me. Thank you for pushing me.
“Thank you for loving me. Tony Walsh said in his unforgettable poem this is the place. I’m sorry, Tony: this is my place. Noel…I was right. It has been so f****** fun. Love you all.”
Reaction and Context
Guardiola’s departure brings an end to a remarkable era at Manchester City, during which he won multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and the Champions League. His emotional message highlights his deep connection to the city and the club, referencing key moments such as the Manchester Arena attack and his personal loss during the pandemic. The news has sparked widespread reaction from fans and pundits alike, with many praising his legacy.
