Pep Guardiola Leaves Manchester City After 10 Years and 17 Trophies as Arsenal Ends Title Reign
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · May 22
Pep Guardiola Leaves Manchester City After 10 Years and 17 Trophies as Arsenal Ends Title Reign
6 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 22
Manchester City said Pep Guardiola will step down after Sunday's home game against Aston Villa, ending a 10-year spell in which he won 17 major trophies.
The 55-year-old said there was "no reason" beyond feeling "it's my time," adding that "nothing is eternal" as he confirmed the decision.
The exit was announced three days after City lost the 2025-26 Premier League title to Arsenal, whose first championship in 22 years was sealed by City's draw at Bournemouth.
BBC Sport had reported on Monday that City were preparing for Guardiola's departure a year before his contract expired, with former assistant Enzo Maresca emerging as the leading replacement.
What is the real reason Guardiola is leaving after losing the title to his former apprentice?
Will Guardiola's disciple continue City's dynasty, or does his exit signal the end of an era?
After conquering club football, will Pep Guardiola's next challenge be winning the World Cup?
Arsenal Ends City's Reign: Guardiola Leaves Amid 115 Premier League Charges Against Manchester City
Overview
Arsenal's Premier League title win in May 2026 marked a major shift in English football, celebrated with excitement outside the Emirates Stadium. This triumph came just as Pep Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City was confirmed, ending a transformative era for the club. Despite earlier speculation, Guardiola had signed a contract extension in 2024 and promised to stay even if City faced relegation due to ongoing Premier League charges. The timing of Arsenal’s victory, before Guardiola’s exit and any resolution of City’s legal issues, ensures their title stands on its own, highlighting a new chapter in the league’s power dynamics.