Pep Guardiola hints at Manchester City exit and future retirement
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hinted at his eventual retirement from football, suggesting his departure from the Etihad Stadium could happen sooner rather than later.
The decorated manager is contracted to the Premier League champions until the summer of 2027, but speculation continues to mount over an early exit.
Speaking ahead of his side’s Champions League tie against Real Madrid, the Catalan coach reflected on the grounds he will miss when he eventually steps away from the dugout.
Praise for rival stadiums
The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich boss admitted he holds deep affection for various away venues across Europe and England.
“Those games, of course I will miss, I have incredible love in this place, I like to come,” Guardiola told TNT Sports.
“The people in Madrid don’t expect it, but I have a lot of respect for this institution, they’ve done many many good things for world football.”
The highly decorated tactician also expressed fondness for domestic trips to the likes of Selhurst Park and Goodison Park.
“I will miss these nights because they are so special,” he added.
“I adore England, I adore the Premier League, for these kind of – FA Cup! Against League One teams… I like a lot! But one day it will be over, right?”
Sabbatical plans on the horizon
Succession planning is reportedly already underway in Manchester, with club chiefs considering potential replacements since December.
The serial winner previously took a year-long sabbatical in 2012 following a trophy-laden stint at Camp Nou, before moving to Germany.
A similar break from the relentless pressure of management appears likely when his current tenure inevitably concludes.
“I know that after this stage with City I’m going to stop, that’s for sure, it’s decided, more than decided,” he stated.
Whether he transitions into a behind-the-scenes role or leaves the sport entirely, the inevitable end of a defining era is steadily approaching.
