The Tactical Journal

In a recent interview that has sent ripples through the football world, Pep Guardiola has made a major announcement about his future. Speaking to GQ Hype, as reported by City Xtra, the Manchester City boss confirmed that he plans to leave the club once his current tenure comes to an end. Guardiola didn’t leave much room for speculation—he stated clearly, “It’s more than decided,” referring to his decision to take a break from football after his time with City. While his contract runs until the summer of 2027, he did not specify whether he would leave before that date or stay until the very end. Regardless, fans and pundits now know that Guardiola’s time at the Etihad has an expiration date.

Guardiola’s reasoning goes beyond tactics or trophies. After a demanding 2024/25 season—where City finished third in the Premier League and struggled in domestic and European competitions—he admitted that he needs time for himself. “I need to stop,” he said. The intensity of managing at the highest level for nearly two decades seems to be catching up with him, and he emphasized the need to look after his body and well-being once this chapter closes. It’s a rare moment of personal vulnerability from a man known for his relentless pursuit of excellence on the pitch.

Despite a disappointing campaign by City’s high standards, Guardiola has not thrown in the towel just yet. Ahead of the 2025/26 season, the club has already made significant moves in the transfer market, bringing in talents like Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders. These signings suggest Guardiola still intends to go out with a statement, aiming to push for more titles in his final stretch. His legacy at Manchester City is already secure, with multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and a long-awaited Champions League trophy under his belt. But clearly, Guardiola isn’t content to ride off quietly—he wants to end on a high.

This announcement also sparks major questions for City’s future. Who will replace Guardiola? Will the club continue its dominance in English football after his departure? For now, those answers remain unclear. But what’s certain is that football will soon say goodbye to one of the game’s most influential modern managers. Whether he takes a sabbatical or eventually returns to coaching elsewhere, Pep Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City will mark the end of an unforgettable era.