[Official] "Taking a break for now," Pep admits burnout—ends 10-year partnership with Manchester City; club honors him with a statue

*This content was translated by AI.

World-renowned manager Pep Guardiola (55), who brought countless trophies to England's Manchester City, is putting an end to his 10-year tenure.

On the 22nd (Korean time), Manchester City announced via its official website and social media that "Manager Guardiola will leave the team after the conclusion of this season."

In his farewell message, Guardiola stated, "How incredible a time we have shared. Please do not ask why I am leaving. There is no reason. But deep down, I know it is time to go."

He continued, "Nothing is eternal. If there were something eternal, I would still be here. What will remain forever are the emotions, the people, the memories, and my love for Manchester City."

Guardiola, originally from Spain, managed Barcelona (Spain) and Bayern Munich (Germany) before taking charge of Manchester City in 2016. Since his arrival, Manchester City has established itself as the strongest team representing European football, surpassing the EPL. Guardiola has won a remarkable 20 trophies solely at Manchester City. His achievements include six EPL titles, one UCL title, one UEFA Super Cup title, three FA Cup titles, five League Cup titles, one FIFA Club World Cup title, and three Community Shield titles.

Furthermore, under Guardiola's leadership, Manchester City achieved 416 wins in 592 matches, with a win rate reaching an impressive 70.3%. During this period, the team scored 1,422 goals while conceding only 520. These figures represent an overwhelming average of 2.40 goals scored and 0.88 goals conceded per match. British Sky Sports evaluated that "Guardiola has changed the landscape of the Premier League since taking charge at Manchester City."

This departure comes sooner than expected. Guardiola's contract with Manchester City was set to expire next summer. However, Guardiola expressed his intention to step down at the end of this season, and Manchester City respected his decision and accepted it.

According to reports, Guardiola explained that the need for new changes at Manchester City was the reason for his decision to part ways. He said, "Manchester City needs a new manager, new energy. We must write a new chapter with the amazing players we have," adding, "The moment has come to properly say goodbye to my people."

Exhaustion of physical and mental energy was also a factor. When asked if his energy levels influenced this departure, Guardiola admitted, "Absolutely." He further stated, "I felt I could not maintain the same energy under the expectation of fighting for a title every day," reiterating, "The goal has not disappeared. But it has been 10 years. Now is the time for change."

Moreover, Guardiola is not expected to take charge of a new team immediately after leaving Manchester City. When asked about his future plans, he briefly replied, "Rest." He added, "I have no plans regarding managerial positions for the time being. If I did, I would have stayed here. I need to step back. I will not take charge of a team for the foreseeable future."

However, Guardiola is set to contribute as a global ambassador for City Football Group. City Football Group owns several clubs worldwide, including Manchester City. Guardiola will provide technical advice for these clubs and participate in specific projects and collaborations. For reference, Enzo Maresca, the former Chelsea manager who served as Guardiola's head coach, is expected to take over as Manchester City's next manager.

Manchester City has also prepared special honors to commemorate Guardiola's achievements. They plan to name the northern stand of the Etihad Stadium the "Pep Guardiola Stand" and erect a statue of Guardiola. The club explained, "This is to commemorate his incredible contributions during the historic 10 years."

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*This content was translated by AI.