Manchester City is gearing up for the departure of manager Pep Guardiola after his contract ends at the conclusion of the season. Despite the club maintaining that Guardiola has a contract for next season and expressing hope he will stay, preparations are underway for his exit.

Sources have told BBC Sport that the legendary coach is expected to leave Etihad Stadium at the end of the campaign. The club is considering renaming the expanded North Stand in honor of Guardiola to mark his iconic tenure. City players are also anticipating his departure after the final game of the season against Aston Villa.

Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who worked under Guardiola at City, is the frontrunner to replace him. Guardiola, who has led City to 17 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and one Champions League, has been the subject of speculation about his future for months. Despite this, he has repeatedly stated he has another year left on his contract.

Guardiola, who joined City in 2016, has dominated English football, leading the team to 100 points in a Premier League season and completing the Treble in 2022-23. His City side also became the first to win the English league title four seasons in a row in the 2023-24 campaign. He signed a two-year contract extension in November 2024, but his departure is still expected.