Guardiola: Man City Must Prepare for Life After Me

Guardiola: Man City ‘Must Prepare’ for My Exit

Pep Guardiola has admitted that Manchester City must be ready for his eventual departure, reinforcing the club’s need to plan for a future without him—even if he is currently happy and under contract until 2027.

“I will not be here forever. The club must be prepared for everything,” the 54-year-old told reporters ahead of Saturday’s clash with West Ham.

Despite signing a contract extension in November 2024, Guardiola was non-committal when asked whether he would see out the full deal.

“I understand that question… it comes every season. I have 18 months left. What happens, happens.”

City Already Planning Succession — With Maresca in the Frame?

According to sources, sporting director Hugo Viana is compiling a shortlist of potential successors, with at least two names already identified. While no names have been confirmed officially, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, a former Guardiola assistant, is reportedly one of the candidates.

Maresca dismissed the rumours strongly.

“It’s 100% speculation,” he said. “I’m proud to be at Chelsea. My focus is here.”

He also referenced recent links with Juventus, stating such reports are “not true” and reaffirmed his commitment to Chelsea.

No Talks Yet – But Signals Are There

Guardiola insists there have been no talks about leaving early, but acknowledged the ever-changing nature of football:

“If I had 10 years or six months left, football changes a lot. There are no discussions right now.”

City’s ongoing due diligence, however, suggests the club is aware that even Guardiola’s era must eventually end — and that the right plan must already be in place.

“The only people who stay forever are the owners,” he joked.

Guardiola’s Legacy at City

Since joining in 2016, Guardiola has guided City to an era of dominance:

• 6 Premier League titles

• 1 Champions League title

• Multiple domestic cups

But as the team evolves, and with the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool pushing hard this season, speculation has naturally returned.

City are currently 2 points behind leaders Arsenal as they host West Ham this weekend.

Maresca’s Chelsea Drama: Rift or Rumour?

Meanwhile, Maresca has had to deal with internal drama at Chelsea, stemming from his remarks after a 2–0 win over Everton, calling it his “worst 48 hours” at the club.

Speculation grew around a possible rift with Chelsea’s ownership and senior leadership, though Maresca denied any fallout:

“We are in the same building and speak daily… but not about the press conference.”

Despite the noise, Chelsea are:

• 4th in the Premier League

• In the Carabao Cup semi-finals

• Chasing Champions League progression

Maresca also gave injury boosts with news that Liam Delap and Estevao Willian may return sooner than expected.

What’s Next for City and Chelsea?

With Guardiola’s future unclear and Chelsea’s hierarchy silent, both clubs face critical moments.

For City, the search for a successor—whether now or in 2026—has quietly begun.

For Chelsea, ensuring internal harmony will be key as Maresca tries to solidify early success.