‘I don’t have energy anymore’ – Guardiola says Man City need ‘new energy’ after confirming exit
Pep Guardiola says Manchester City need “new energy” after confirming he will leave the club after Sunday’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa.
The Spaniard will bring an end to a hugely successful 10-year spell at the Etihad Stadium, during which he transformed City into one of the dominant forces in European football.
Guardiola leaves having won 17 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League.
Guardiola explains decision to leave
Speaking ahead of his final match in charge, Guardiola admitted he no longer feels capable of maintaining the intensity required to compete at the highest level every season.
“Ten years is a lot of time and I think the club needs a new manager, new energy,” Guardiola said.
“I feel I would not have the energy required to daily, every three days, to fight for the title, being in front of the players.”
The 55-year-old added that although he could have stayed longer, he believes this is the “perfect moment” for both himself and the club to move in a different direction.
Emotional farewell at Etihad
City are preparing a major tribute to Guardiola during Sunday’s season finale against Europa League winners Villa.
The club’s newly redeveloped north stand will officially carry Guardiola’s name, while a statue honouring the former FC Barcelona and FC Bayern Munich manager will also be installed outside the stadium.
Guardiola admitted emotions got the better of him when addressing his squad about his departure.
“I was so nervous, more than ever,” he said, while joking that his farewell speech “was a disaster.”
Maresca emerges as leading candidate
Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is currently viewed as the frontrunner to replace Guardiola after previously working under him at Manchester City.
Guardiola’s exit comes shortly after City surrendered the Premier League title to Arsenal, whose triumph ended a 22-year wait for league glory.
Despite missing out on the title in his final season, Guardiola still guided City to FA Cup and League Cup success before deciding to step away from management temporarily.
He confirmed he will take a break from coaching but remain involved with the City Football Group in an ambassadorial and advisory capacity.