Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City Exit Confirmed: Enzo Maresca Set to Take Over as Era Ends
Josep “Pep” Guardiola, one of the most successful managers in football history, will leave Manchester City at the end of the 2025-26 season, marking the end of a transformative decade in English football. According to multiple verified reports from CBS Sports and The New York Times, Guardiola’s departure is imminent, with former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca expected to replace him.
Guardiola, 55, has guided Manchester City to unprecedented success since his arrival in 2016, securing six Premier League titles, the 2023 UEFA Champions League, and a record 20 major trophies in his 10-year tenure. His final matches in charge will likely be against Bournemouth and Aston Villa, with City’s Premier League title still mathematically in play.
Maresca, who won the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup with Chelsea last season before his departure in January, has been in discussions with City for months. Reports indicate he informed Chelsea twice—once in late October and again in mid-December—that he was exploring opportunities with Manchester City, per The Athletic.
Why Guardiola’s Departure Matters
Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City has redefined the club’s identity, shifting from a traditional underdog to a global powerhouse. His tactical innovations, emphasis on possession-based football, and ability to develop young talent (such as Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri, and Erling Haaland) have left an indelible mark on the Premier League.
His 2022-23 treble—winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in a single season—was the first by an English club since Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United in 1998-99. Guardiola also holds the record for the most consecutive league wins in the Premier League, La Liga, and Bundesliga combined.
Maresca’s appointment, if confirmed, would continue Guardiola’s legacy while bringing a fresh perspective. The Italian manager, known for his defensive pragmatism and ability to manage young players, could face the challenge of maintaining City’s dominance in a league where rivals like Arsenal and Liverpool are closing the gap.
Key Takeaways
- Guardiola’s exit: Confirmed for the end of the 2025-26 season, with his final matches likely against Bournemouth and Aston Villa.
- Maresca’s succession: Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is the frontrunner to replace Guardiola, per verified reports.
- Trophy haul: Guardiola leaves with 20 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League.
- City’s future: The club remains in contention for the Premier League title, with two games remaining.
- Legacy: Guardiola’s influence on Manchester City’s playing style and youth development will be long-lasting.
What Happens Next?
While Guardiola’s departure is now widely expected, no official announcement has been made by Manchester City or the manager himself. The club’s next major statement is likely to come after the Aston Villa match on May 25, 2026, which could be Guardiola’s final game in charge.
Maresca, currently without a club, will need to finalize his contract details before officially joining City. His first challenge will be maintaining the high standards set by Guardiola, particularly in the Premier League and Champions League.
For fans and pundits alike, Guardiola’s departure signals the end of an era—but also the beginning of a new chapter for one of football’s most successful clubs.
FAQ: Pep Guardiola’s Exit and Enzo Maresca’s Rise
Q: Is Guardiola’s departure official?
A: No official announcement has been made, but multiple verified reports from CBS Sports and The New York Times confirm his exit is imminent.
Q: Who is Enzo Maresca?
A: A former Chelsea manager (2024-25), Maresca won the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup before leaving in January 2026. He was an assistant to Guardiola at Manchester City from 2020 to 2022.
Q: How many trophies did Guardiola win at Manchester City?
A: 20 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, two League Cups, and the 2023 UEFA Champions League.
Q: Will Manchester City still win the Premier League?
A: The title race remains open, with two games left. Arsenal leads the table, but City could still claim the title if they win both remaining matches.
Next Steps: Where to Follow Updates
For the latest official statements, monitor:
We’ll continue to update this story as official announcements are made. Share your thoughts on Guardiola’s legacy and Maresca’s future in the comments below.