Pep Guardiola, one of the greatest coaches in the history of English football, is set to step down as Manchester City manager after Sunday’s final Premier League match of the season against Aston Villa.
Guardiola will close the chapter on ten remarkable years at The Etihad, during which he secured 20 trophies and helped establish City as one of the world’s top clubs.
Under his leadership, City claimed six league titles, including an “unprecedent” four consecutively, while also guiding the club to its first Champions League success.
Reports suggest City have already started informing sponsor partners that the announcement is imminent. The development has also reportedly been an open secret among some people close to Guardiola.
The decision is expected to be officially announced on Sunday, allowing Guardiola’s remarkable influence on English football to be honoured during an open-top bus parade on Monday.
It is said the parade build-up will begin in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at 4pm before concluding outside the Colin Bell Stand reception at the Etihad Stadium an hour later.
Guardiola’s possible exit this summer has been surrounded by speculation for months, especially after it became clear the Catalan was considering ending his tenure at City.
Although he still has one year remaining on his contract — something he has continued to reference — there remains a possibility he could stay involved with the club in another role.
The main contenders to replace him are Enzo Maresca, the former Chelsea manager, and Vincent Kompany, the Bayern Munich boss.
City defeated Chelsea 1-0 at Wembley to lift the FA Cup on Saturday and remain in contention with Arsenal for the Premier League title.
They will take on Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Tuesday evening before Sunday’s final game at The Etihad.
