Pep Guardiola, leaving Manchester City after 10 years in charge: This team needs a new manager and more energy.

The 2025/26 Premier League season will enter its final round of competition, with Manchester City hosting Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola, who will step down as manager, stated that his 10 years at Manchester City were an invaluable experience, and that the club needs new energy and a new manager.

The 55-year-old Guardiola became Manchester City's manager in 2016 and led the city to six Premier League titles, three FA Cup titles, five FA Cup titles, and one Champions League title during his long ten-year tenure. Of course, this also includes leading Manchester City to a treble in the 2022/23 season.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said, "I am truly satisfied. I don't even know what words to use to describe it. I feel satisfied, happy, and proud. I think this is the most important experience of my life, otherwise I wouldn't have stayed here for 10 years. Over the years, whether in these last few days or many years ago, I have felt countless loves and support, and I am truly grateful for that."

"The time has really come. This is not a decision I made suddenly one day. It is actually a process I have been going through for a long time. The club has shown incredible respect for my decision. They also had to prepare in advance, and I felt that."

Guardiola stated, "This job has involved facing new matches every few days for many years, like at Selhurst Park, Anfield, Madrid, and the FA Cup. Now, I need to live my own life and see what the future holds. Ten years is a long time, and I think the club needs a new manager and new energy. We now have a very good group of players who will start a new chapter for themselves."

“When I first came, I signed a three-year contract, and at the time I said I’d see what happened. And everything that’s left is now history. The reason we’re able to continue working together is because the club and I both feel very comfortable.”

It's worth mentioning that England star John Stones and Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva will leave Manchester City at the end of this season.

Guardiola continued, "I know I have achieved incredible things as a manager, and it is wonderful to be at such a high level. One of the biggest compliments I have received these days is from Sir Alex Ferguson, as well as messages from De Bruyne and Akanji."

"That's what truly makes me happy and lucky. As for the discussions about who's the best in history, they're not important. I've always enjoyed my work, whether in Barcelona, Bayern Munich, or here. I've always given my best until I'm completely exhausted."

Guardiola added, "As I leave, I feel an indescribable peace, and people have enjoyed everything I've done here. Of course, it's not just about me."

Image source: Internet