Pep Guardiola Set to Depart Manchester City: Replacement Rumors Intensify
Pep Guardiola is preparing to leave Manchester City at the end of the current Premier League season, with an announcement expected soon. Since arriving in 2016, Guardiola has led City to an impressive 19 titles, including a historic treble in the 2022/23 season that matched Sir Alex Ferguson’s feat with Manchester United in 1998/99. Most recently, Guardiola's team claimed the 2025/26 Carabao and FA Cups, completing a domestic cup double after defeating Chelsea 1-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley. Despite having a year left on his contract, speculation around his departure has intensified, especially following the upcoming Premier League finale this Sunday. Rumors suggest that Enzo Maresca, Guardiola’s former assistant and ex-boss at Chelsea and Leicester, is the frontrunner to take over. However, discussions around Guardiola's exit coincide with ongoing inquiries into Manchester City’s conduct, potentially extending the situation for months. Amidst this uncertainty, Guardiola remains focused on the Premier League title race, urging his team to push until the very end. City trails behind Arsenal and needs a slip-up from their rivals to secure the trophy. Additionally, multiple candidates are emerging to replace Guardiola: Cesc Fabregas: Former player turned manager, noted for his connection to Guardiola. Oliver Glasner: Departing Crystal Palace manager with a successful tenure. Andoni Iraola: Leaving Bournemouth with potential return to Spain rumored. Vincent Kompany: Former City captain, currently managing Bayern Munich, though he recently extended his contract. As the situation unfolds, Manchester City fans await clarity on both Guardiola’s future and the potential implications for the club.
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-05-19