Pep Guardiola’s time at Manchester City could be nearing its end — and Liverpool fans will be watching this one closely.
For nearly a decade, Guardiola has been the man standing between Liverpool and multiple Premier League titles.
Since arriving at the Etihad in 2016, the Spanish tactician has built a footballing empire, collecting six league crowns and turning City into a near-unstoppable machine. But now, fresh reports suggest his Manchester chapter might soon close.
According to The Times journalist Paul Hirst, people close to the situation believe Guardiola could leave at the end of this season — marking the end of his tenth year at the club. It’s not set in stone yet, but as Hirst noted:
“A final decision has not been made — and Guardiola has always fulfilled his contracts — but those with knowledge of the situation admit that an exit at the culmination of his tenth season at the helm could be on the cards.”
That would mean Guardiola departs in the summer of 2026, even though his current deal runs until 2027.
Could this really be the end of the Pep Guardiola era?
Apparently, there’s growing belief inside the club that this could be the “logical time” for him to step away.
The logic is simple — Guardiola has won everything there is to win. Eighteen major trophies, countless records, and a style of football that’s changed English football forever.
After ten years, some close to the manager reportedly feel he may want a new challenge, possibly even at international level. Guardiola himself hinted at that earlier this year, saying he would be open to managing a national team “if the right project comes along.”
Of course, this isn’t the first time rumors have swirled around Pep’s future. City fans have been here before — expecting an exit, only to see him sign another contract extension.
Predicting Guardiola’s next move is as tough as defending a Kevin De Bruyne (former Man City star) through ball.
Who could replace Pep Guardiola at Man City?
If Pep does walk away, the real question is who could possibly replace him.
According to the same Times report, Vincent Kompany, Roberto De Zerbi, and Andoni Iraola are all admired within the club. Kompany, City’s former captain, would be a romantic choice but is currently tied to Bayern Munich.
De Zerbi, now at Marseille, has long been praised by Guardiola himself for his tactical bravery. And Iraola, impressing at Bournemouth, shares the same City Football Group connection from his New York City FC days — a link that could come in handy.
For now, Guardiola remains focused on guiding City through another title race. But with ten years of relentless football behind him, questions over how long he can sustain that intensity are growing louder.
Liverpool fans might not admit it openly, but many will be keeping a close eye on this one. After all, if Guardiola really does step down soon, it could finally tilt the Premier League balance back toward Anfield or for now lets say the Emirates.