Pep Guardiola took charge of Manchester City back in 2016 and, after a short period of adaptation, turned the Citizens into the most dominant force the English Premier League has ever seen. The Sky Blues have won six out of the last eight league titles, and multiple other trophies in addition to that.
Guardiola Could Bid Farewell to Etihad Stadium After 7 Years
To be clear, it is not set in stone that Pep Guardiola will say his goodbye to Manchester City at the end of 2024/25. Yet, in a press conference in May, the Catalan coach admitted that he was “closer to leaving than staying” when discussing his expiring contract. The 53-year-old did not rule out a potential extension and he was willing to talk to the club, but many believe that the upcoming season will be Guardiola’s final year in Manchester. In fact, the technician started hinting at a departure already in 2022 but the parties came to an agreement eventually. However, it has been clear for a while that Pep has his doubts. It remains to be seen what will come next for the Catalan manager. He has already closed the door to a return to Barcelona where it all started. The English national team have been following Guardiola from afar, but it might be too early for the coach to make the move to the less intensive and prestigious international football.
Challenges for Man City in Guardiola’s Likely Final Year
The Citizens have become a very pragmatic team under Guardiola, especially in the last two-three years. City know how to control the game from start to finish and avoid mistakes. Thus, it is not difficult imagining the Sky Blues winning their fifth Premier League title in a row. But the 2024/25 season will bring Man City some off-the-pitch challenges that they have never faced before. For one, Guardiola’s indecision regarding his future will certainly affect the players. Some of them may decide to leave Etihad Stadium together with the coach, and this can influence their performance and focus. Second, the investigation into the alleged Financial Fair Play misconduct could result in point deduction for the club, similar to what happened to Everton last term. The pressure in the media and the rumours will undoubtedly be felt in the dressing room. And third, the competition in England is not slowing down. Arsenal will continue in the same manner as last term, pushing for the title until the last matchday. Liverpool with a new coach will become unpredictable, same as Chelsea. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur may surprise too.
Expectations for 2024/25
The bottom line is, Manchester City are one of if not the best team in the world, with a remarkable squad. This will not change over the course of one season, whether Pep Guardiola is leaving or not. The Citizens are not expected to make any big signings this summer, at least for now, but the players they have are enough to push for another Premier League trophy. At the very least, the Sky Blues will be involved in the 2024/25 title race until the last days. As far as the other competitions go, Man City usually make it far in the English League Cup and FA Cup, and at least one of these trophies should fall into their hands. UEFA Champions League is another story, more so this year with a changed format. Guardiola may pay special attention to it in his last season at Etihad, as he’s only won it once with Manchester City. But no team can win it relying on class alone, luck is also required.
