Energy concerns end Pep Guardiola’s Man City era after nine-year reign

With one year remaining on his contract, Pep Guardiola confirmed he would leave Manchester City, saying he no longer possessed the energy required to stay at the top, especially given the relentless schedule of preparing for games every three days during the season.

The former Manchester City manager opened up on the real reasons behind his decision to depart the Etihad Stadium this summer, stressing that the choice was personal and not driven by external pressure.

Guardiola’s exit in May concluded a nine‑year spell at the Etihad that delivered six Premier League titles, three FA Cups and five Carabao Cups, as well as the club’s first UEFA Champions League triumph in 2023.

Media reports before the announcement suggested he had initially contemplated remaining beyond the 2025‑26 season, but he ultimately decided the day‑to‑day demands were no longer sustainable.

Enzo Maresca has since been appointed as Guardiola’s successor and has already settled into his role at the Etihad Stadium, with former City assistant Pepijn Lijnders sending him a personal welcome message.

In a new interview with OKX, Guardiola confirmed that a contractual route to stay an additional year was available to him. He said, “I had one more year contract so I could’ve stayed,” and added, “I didn’t have the energy that is required to be at the top, or be demanding for games every three days.”

Club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and CEO Ferran Soriano have spoken publicly about a thoughtful and structured succession process, indicating the transition to Maresca was carefully planned rather than reactive.

Director of football Hugo Viana noted that the measured handover gave the club’s wider structure the benefit of a smooth change of era, and Guardiola’s candid explanation removes any doubt that his exit was forced.