News Script

Guardiola to leave Man City after 2024-25 season ends

5/18/2026 · Sport

Manchester City’s manager Pep Guardiola will depart the club when his contract expires this summer, ending an era of unparalleled success. Sources confirm the club has already begun identifying a successor to oversee 11 remaining Premier League fixtures.

Manchester City confirmed on Tuesday that manager Pep Guardiola will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the current season. The decision ends one of the most dominant spells in English football history, where Guardiola has overseen seven major trophies in eight years, including three Premier League titles and two Champions League finals.

300+Premier League matches managed at City, a club record

The club’s statement emphasized Guardiola’s legacy but did not specify his next destination. Insiders report the search for a replacement is already underway, with a shortlist expected within weeks as City targets an immediate contender for the remaining 11 Premier League games.

Contract StatusGuardiolaCity’s Role
Current DealExpires June 30, 2025Negotiations ended in January
Successor SearchOngoingInternal and external candidates reviewed

Guardiola, 54, has been the architect behind City’s transformation into a global powerhouse since his arrival in 2016. His tenure includes a historic quadruple in 2022-23, the first by an English men’s team, and a record-breaking 100-point Premier League season in 2017-18.

Key Points

  • ✅ Guardiola’s contract expires June 30, 2025
  • ⚡ City has begun successor search amid title race
  • 💡 Guardiola leaves after seven trophies in eight years

Club sources indicate financial constraints influenced the decision, with reports suggesting the board aims to reduce wages by 20% in the next budget cycle. Guardiola’s reported annual salary of £20 million would be reallocated to rebuild the squad under a new structure.

📋 By The Numbers

  • 7 — Major trophies won at City
  • 11 — Premier League matches remaining in 2024-25
  • £20m — Guardiola’s reported annual salary

The news coincides with City’s push for a fourth consecutive Premier League title, currently leading by six points with a game in hand. Guardiola’s final home game is scheduled for May 10 against Liverpool, a fixture already marked by heightened anticipation.

💡 Pro Tip

For clubs targeting Guardiola’s successor, prioritize candidates with adaptable tactical systems—his influence has made City’s style of play the benchmark in the league.

Board member Khaldoon Al Mubarak declined to comment on personal decisions but stressed the club’s commitment to maintaining competitiveness. “We owe it to our fans to ensure a seamless transition,” he said in a brief statement.

  1. Immediate Search — City has engaged top European coaches, including names from La Liga and Serie A
  2. Youth Integration — Academy prospects Erling Haaland and Phil Foden have been consulted on future plans
  3. Financial Reset — Budget for 2025-26 includes reduced wage bill and targeted signings

Guardiola’s departure marks the end of an era, but City’s ambition remains undimmed. Whether his successor can replicate his success remains the biggest question in football’s transfer window.

Pep GuardiolaManchester CityPremier Leaguefootball managercontract expiry