Pep is set to complete 10 years at Manchester City in 2026, a rare feat in elite football
Once again, Pep Guardiola had to raise his tone at a press conference to refute speculation about his departure from Manchester City. The rumors gained strength after the dismissal of Enzo Maresca from Chelsea, on January 1, 2026 — his former assistant at City, who was even mentioned as a possible successor if Pep decided to leave the club at the end of this season.
Guardiola, visibly irritated, exploded: “I’ve said this a million times! I have a contract until 2027. Do you want me to leave? One day I’ll leave, I promise… But I won’t respond to rumors anymore. I’m happy at City, with a board that supports me even in the most difficult periods.”
“He reinforced that he has another year and a half left on his contract (signed in November 2024) and that he intends to fulfill it, highlighting the support received even in times of crisis — such as the current season, in which City is not experiencing its best moment, but remains competitive.
Pep is set to complete 10 years at Manchester City in 2026, a rare feat in elite football. He is one of the most successful coaches in history, with unforgettable titles at the Etihad, but the natural wear and tear of such a long stay is inevitable. At Barcelona, he spent 4 years (2008-2012).
At Bayern Munich, 3 years (2013-2016). At City, there are almost 10 — and he himself admitted in past interviews that mental fatigue is real.
Guardiola has already spoken openly about planning a long career break after 2027, to take care of his body and mind. The “discourse of tiredness” is nothing new nor should it be underestimated: maintaining the level of demand and daily pressure for so long takes a high toll. It’s difficult to relieve the tension of a mind that’s always in high gear.
Even so, for now, Pep shows signs that he wants to continue fighting for City. The rumors about Maresca (who, by the way, praised his former coach highly, saying that Chelsea lost an “incredible coach”) serve more to shake up the market than to reflect the immediate reality. Football doesn’t stop, and neither do rumors.
*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.
