Pep Guardiola Reportedly Set for Manchester City Exit as Replacement Rumors Intensify
- Sam Lim
- May 19
- 2 min read

Pep Guardiola Era Nearing Its End as Manchester City Prepare for Major Transition
A historic chapter at Manchester City could soon be reaching its conclusion, with growing reports suggesting Pep Guardiola is preparing to step away from the club at the end of the season.
According to multiple reports emerging from England, Manchester City have already started internal preparations for life after Guardiola, with expectations rising that the legendary manager could officially depart following the club’s upcoming clash against Aston Villa.
Sources close to the situation indicate that members of City’s staff and squad are increasingly convinced Guardiola’s time at the Etihad Stadium is nearing its end. While the club has yet to publicly address the speculation, behind-the-scenes planning is reportedly already underway.
Further reports from respected football journalists, including David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano, claim former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Guardiola.

If confirmed, Guardiola’s departure would mark the end of one of the most dominant managerial reigns in modern football history.
Since arriving at Manchester City in 2016, the Spanish tactician has transformed the club into a global powerhouse. Under his leadership, City captured six Premier League titles, a long-awaited UEFA Champions League trophy, and a remarkable collection of domestic and international silverware totaling 20 major honors.
That trophy haul could still grow before the season concludes if City manage to overtake Arsenal in the title race.
Despite the club continuing to face scrutiny surrounding the Premier League’s 115 financial charges investigation, Guardiola’s impact on the pitch remains undeniable. His tactical revolution reshaped English football and elevated Manchester City into one of the most feared teams in Europe.
Replacing a figure of Guardiola’s stature will be an enormous challenge for any successor.
Maresca, currently viewed as the favorite for the role, previously worked within City’s coaching setup before moving into senior management. The Italian enjoyed moments of promise during his spell at Chelsea, guiding the club to a top-four finish and UEFA Conference League success during the 2024-25 campaign.
However, his time in London ended earlier than expected after tensions reportedly developed behind the scenes.
Manchester City’s hierarchy will now hope Maresca can provide continuity while also establishing his own identity should he officially take over.
Fortunately for the incoming manager, City still possess one of the strongest squads and biggest financial resources in world football. Even so, filling the void left by Guardiola — widely regarded as one of the greatest managers of his generation — may prove nearly impossible.
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