Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has hinted at his future with the club as he approaches the last 15 months of his current contract.
The Spanish manager has been the subject of speculation regarding a potential exit from City at the end of the season, which would be a year before his contract expires in 2027.
Reports in the English media suggest that those at the Etihad Stadium are increasingly bracing for Guardiola’s departure this summer.
Club officials are believed to be considering a five-person shortlist to succeed Guardiola, which includes Enzo Maresca, Cesc Fabregas, Roberto De Zerbi, Andoni Iraola, and Xabi Alonso. This comes as director of football Hugo Viana and chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak search for an effective successor to Manchester City’s most successful manager.
Insights into Pep Guardiola’s contract renewal prospects – Search for his replacement begins.
What has Pep Guardiola said about his future at Manchester City?
Since December 2025, various reports have emerged linking Guardiola to a potential departure from the Etihad.
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Maresca, who was recently dismissed as head coach of Chelsea, is rumored to have engaged in initial discussions with Manchester City officials regarding taking over for Guardiola, whether that happens this summer or at the end of the 2027 season.
Throughout recent press conferences, Guardiola has consistently downplayed rumors of an early exit from Manchester City, emphasizing his commitment to the club and his eagerness to guide a revamped City squad back to trophy-winning form.
However, club executives do not anticipate that the 55-year-old will extend his contract past 2027, at which point he would have spent 11 years in Manchester.
Is Pep Guardiola set to leave Manchester City this summer?
In a recent interview with TNT Sports, Guardiola shared his thoughts on what he will miss about the management role once he decides to retire.
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“I will miss not visiting Camp Nou, and I will miss Bayern Munich – hopefully, we can advance and go there – and I will miss those moments when I eventually retire,” said the 55-year-old. “I cherish these special nights. I also love Selhurst Park.”
“The Premier League, these stadiums, and the Champions League will be missed. I enjoy matches against teams like Fulham, Crystal Palace, and Goodison Park – these grounds contribute to my love for England and the Premier League, especially during FA Cup matches against League One teams. But eventually, all good things will come to an end, right?”
A decision on whether Guardiola will see out his final year with Manchester City is expected by the season’s end, with club captain Bernardo Silva, John Stones, and Nathan Ake likely to depart.