Why I’m Leaving Manchester City – Guardiola

Outgoing Pep Guardiola has revealed that exhaustion and the intense demands of modern football were the major reasons behind his decision to leave Manchester City after a hugely successful spell at the club.

Guardiola, who confirmed on Friday that he would step down from his role after a decade in charge at the Etihad Stadium, admitted that he no longer possesses the energy required to continue operating at the highest level of the game.

The Spaniard compared his situation to that of former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who left Anfield in the summer of 2024 after citing fatigue and the emotional strain of football management.

Speaking to reporters, Guardiola said he completely understood Klopp’s decision and now finds himself in a similar position.

“I share the same feeling as when Jurgen Klopp left. I am running out of energy,” Guardiola stated.

“I feel like I will not have the energy that is required for a game every three days, to fight for titles, being in front of the players every day.

“It’s been 10 years. This job is every three days for many, many years — Selhurst Park, Anfield, Madrid, and Madrid again. Now I have to live my life.”

The 55-year-old described the relentless football calendar as physically and mentally demanding, noting that constant pressure to compete for trophies season after season had taken its toll.

Guardiola added that after spending a decade at City, he believes the club now requires “new energy” and a fresh voice in the dressing room to begin another successful era.

“Ten years is a lot of time. I think the club needs a new manager, new energy. With these incredible players we have right now, it is time to start writing another chapter,” he added.

During his remarkable spell at Manchester City, Guardiola transformed the club into one of the dominant forces in European football, winning multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups and the club’s first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy.

His departure is expected to mark the end of an era for the Premier League champions, with supporters and football analysts already speculating about who will succeed one of the most influential managers in modern football history.