It increasingly feels like the end of an era at the Etihad.
After a decade of dominance, revolution and silverware, reports suggest Pep Guardiola is preparing to step away from Manchester City at the end of the season.
According to The Athletic and The Guardian, Guardiola is expected to announce his departure before the campaign concludes, potentially bringing the curtain down on one of the greatest managerial reigns in Premier League history.
And in a move that would continue City’s tactical identity, former assistant coach Enzo Maresca — who has been out of work since leaving Chelsea in January — has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to replace him.
If the reports prove accurate, Guardiola’s final game in charge could come this Sunday
against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium.
But all the sentimentality can wait. Because City still have a Premier League title race to fight, beginning with a crucial clash against Bournemouth on Thursday.
Guardiola’s side must win their remaining two matches and hope Arsenal slip up against Crystal Palace to keep their hopes of another domestic crown alive.
Guardiola’s Influential Stint With City
To call Guardiola the most influential manager in Man City’s history barely scratches the surface.
Since arriving from Bayern Munich in July 2016, the Spaniard has completely transformed both City and English football itself. His possession-heavy, high-pressing philosophy reshaped coaching methods across every level of the game.
After finishing third in his debut season, Guardiola responded by building one of football’s modern dynasties.
Under him, City have won six Premier League titles in seven seasons, lifted their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy, and added the FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup and three Community Shields to an overflowing cabinet.
More than trophies, though, Guardiola gave City an identity — one that turned them from challengers into the defining force of modern English football.
