Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola could be on the brink of a stunning departure from the Etihad Stadium this week, according to reputable pundits and breaking reports from multiple football news outlets. The speculation has intensified after City’s recent faltering form in the Premier League — punctuated by their 2–0 derby defeat to Manchester United — sparking claims that the legendary Spaniard may decide to walk away sooner than expected. 
The comments were made by seasoned broadcaster Richard Keys, who insisted on beIN Sports that while Guardiola is widely expected to see out the rest of the season, there is a real possibility he could bring forward his exit and resign “this week.” Keys even suggested that if Guardiola left immediately, Enzo Maresca would be in charge for City’s next match.
That assertion aligns with broader instability at the club, where City’s charge for silverware this season has stumbled. After consistently dominating English football in recent years, City have now dropped crucial points against Sunderland, Brighton and Chelsea, leaving them chasing Premier League pace-setters Arsenal.
Guardiola, 54, has been at the club since 2016, crafting an era of unprecedented success including six Premier League titles, Champions League triumphs and an FA Cup and League Cup haul. His possible departure would mark the end of an era at Manchester City, where he has become one of the most successful managers in English football history.
The manager’s contract currently runs through June 2027, and Guardiola has publicly insisted he is focused on City’s campaign and not discussing his future. However, the persistent speculation suggests that the club is preparing for all eventualities. Guardiola has previously spoken on the pressures of elite management, and pundit voices within the media now believe he may feel the weight of that long tenure.
Replacement Linked: Enzo Maresca
If Guardiola does depart imminently — as Keys claimed cannot be ruled out — Enzo Maresca is being tipped as the immediate successor. Maresca, who was most recently Chelsea’s head coach before leaving Stamford Bridge earlier this month, has long been linked with City and previously worked under Guardiola’s coaching umbrella.
Reports suggest the Italian is a natural heir at the Etihad should City’s hierarchy decide a change is necessary. Maresca’s tactical acumen and familiarity with Guardiola’s philosophy are seen as key reasons why he is being tipped for the role in the event of a sudden managerial change.
While no official confirmation has come from Manchester City’s board or Guardiola himself, media pressure is mounting. City are reportedly not commenting publicly on the matter, but internal discussions are believed to be happening as the Premier League title race intensifies.
A Guardiola exit this week would send shockwaves through the football world, prompting urgent questions about Manchester City’s future direction, squad leadership and ambitions for the remainder of the season.
