Story perspectives

Guardiola exits City after double, becomes global ambassador.

5/22/2026

Summary

Guardiola Leaves City

Pep Guardiola announced on Friday, 22 May 2026, that he will leave Manchester City at season’s end.
He will remain with City Football Group as a global ambassador, advising its clubs on technical matters.
Sporting director Hugo Viana expects former assistant Enzo Maresca to become head coach.
Guardiola departs after an FA Cup-League Cup double that raised his personal tally to 20 trophies.

Summary

Guardiola Farewell

Pep Guardiola said his Manchester City interview was with Oasis frontman Noel Gallagher, noting that his farewell would reference heritage, citing bricks, factories and unions.
Club chair Khaldoon al-Mubarak praised Guardiola for finding new energy and innovative ways to keep winning despite chances to stop.
Assistant coach Pep Lijnders confirmed he will leave City after the season, after winning the Premier League and Champions League during his time at Liverpool.

History

Historical Context

Sheikh Mansour’s Abu Dhabi United Group bought Manchester City on 1 September 2008 for about £200 million, sparking record spending such as the £32.5 million Robinho signing. The influx propelled ten major trophies, including a 2012 league title and a 2023 continental treble under Pep Guardiola. His 2026 exit, echoing Sir Alex Ferguson’s 2013 departure, marks a new decentralised era for City Football Group.

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Guardiola Leaves City

Pep Guardiola announced on Friday, 22 May 2026, that he will leave Manchester City at season’s end.
He will remain with City Football Group as a global ambassador, advising its clubs on technical matters.
Sporting director Hugo Viana expects former assistant Enzo Maresca to become head coach.
Guardiola departs after an FA Cup-League Cup double that raised his personal tally to 20 trophies.

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