Pep Guardiola: “I’m Going to Stop” After 2027

Pep Guardiola has been the managerial mastermind behind Manchester City’s domestic dominance for nearly a decade. But the Spaniard has now admitted that he may “stop” when his contract runs out in 2027.

Speaking to ESPN Brasil for a Premier League Encounters documentary, the 54-year-old expressed that he desires a break from management, stating, “After my contract with City, I’m going to stop, I’m sure.” While he didn’t explicitly mention retirement, the remarks have begun to spark speculation, especially given the challenges behind Manchester City’s 2024-25 season where they are scrambling to finish in Champions League qualifying positions.

But, this isn’t the first time he has expressed exhaustion. Following his four-year stint at Barcelona — where he won three La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues — he announced he was “stepping away” from the game. He described the role as “all-consuming” and needed time to recharge. Well, one year later, he agreed to be manager of Bayern Munich, and then three years later joined Manchester City where he has been ever since.

The context of his recent comments is made further complex by Man City’s “difficult” season, as Guardiola described it. It included a disastrous winter phase where they won just once in 13 matches across all competitions and were knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid, who in turn got knocked out by Arsenal in the quarterfinals. Granted, they have reached the FA Cup final which will be played near the end of the season, but it’s difficult for the Spaniard to mask the disappointment.

This summer, Man City will likely plan another squad rebuild, with Florian Wirtz widely rumored to join the club in light of players like Kevin de Bruyne leaving. Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, who spent all season injured, is also set to return for next season — the potential last season of Guardiola at City.