A growing number of insiders believe Pep Guardiola may be preparing to end his Manchester City reign next summer, marking the close of a glittering decade at the Etihad Stadium.
According to a report by The Times, those close to the Catalan tactician say he could decide to step down after ten trophy-laden years in charge — a period that has redefined English football dominance.
City officials are said to be quietly preparing for life after Pep, maintaining an active shortlist of potential successors should the 53-year-old opt to walk away in 2026.
Topping the list of possible replacements are:
Vincent Kompany, the club’s legendary former captain currently managing Bayern Munich
Roberto De Zerbi, now at Marseille after his impressive spell at Brighton
Andoni Iraola, the innovative Bournemouth boss praised for his attacking brand of football
Though Guardiola has not made any official statement about his future, sources close to the Spaniard suggest he feels he has “completed a cycle” after guiding City to multiple Premier League titles, domestic trebles, and their long-awaited Champions League triumph.
The club, meanwhile, remains publicly calm. Insiders insist there is “no panic” at the Etihad, with confidence that City’s footballing structure — built under Guardiola’s philosophy — will endure beyond his tenure.
Still, whispers of his possible departure have sent shockwaves through European football. Guardiola, widely regarded as one of the greatest managers of all time, has previously hinted at taking a sabbatical or exploring international football after his spell in Manchester.
If the reports prove true, next season could mark the end of an era — and the beginning of a fierce competition to succeed the man who transformed Manchester City into a global powerhouse.
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