Pep Guardiola is leaving Manchester City this summer, ending his contract a year early. The club expects former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca to take over the position. The coaching change happens as City fights through a tight Premier League title race, currently sitting in second place with 77 points through 36 matches, trailing Arsenal’s 82 points through 37 games.
The announcement contradicts Guardiola’s recent public comments. Just three days ago on May 16, he denied exit rumors during a press conference before the FA Cup final. “No way. No way. I have a one year [left on my] contract,” Guardiola told reporters. City won that match 1-0 over Chelsea to secure Guardiola’s 17th major trophy and third FA Cup title over his 10-year run with the organization.
Maresca brings his own recent history to the Manchester club. He resigned from Chelsea on January 1, 2026, citing his “worst 48 hours” at the team. The sudden departure forced Chelsea to rely on caretaker managers, including under-21s manager Calum McFarlane, to finish the season. The disruption at Stamford Bridge was documented by The Guardian leading up to this weekend’s cup final.
City targeted Maresca early in the process. He emerged as the primary option weeks ago, according to an April report by The Guardian identifying him as the top choice to replace Guardiola.
Roster adjustments are already following the managerial shift. Midfielder Bernardo Silva confirmed the recent FA Cup final occurred during his last season with the club. As the squad prepares for the new regime, recent offensive displays—such as when Manchester City crushes Crystal Palace 3-0—set the standard Maresca must maintain on the pitch.