Man City in talks over extraordinary Pep Guardiola tribute as exit looms

WATCH NOW: Pep Guardiola to leave Man City after 10 years in charge

Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 19/05/2026

- 08:05

Updated: 19/05/2026

- 08:26

The Spaniard is poised to manage the club for the last time on Sunday

Manchester City are in discussions over a remarkable tribute to Pep Guardiola, with the Spaniard poised to walk away after a glittering decade in the dugout.

News broke last night that the 55-year-old was set to depart once Sunday's clash with Aston Villa is out of the way.


Supporters have already begun calling for the newly expanded North Stand at the Etihad Stadium to be named after Guardiola, and The Sun say that talks are underway over making that vision a reality.

If approved, it would represent one of the most significant honours in City's history and underline the extraordinary impact Guardiola has had since arriving in 2016.

The Spaniard has transformed City into a global powerhouse, winning 17 major trophies and redefining English football with his relentless pursuit of perfection.

Among his achievements are six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, three FA Cup triumphs and five EFL Cup victories.

City have previously immortalised club icons including Sergio Agüero, Vincent Kompany, David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne with statues outside the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola is set to leave Man City at the end of the week after a glittering decade in charge

Pep Guardiola is set to leave Man City at the end of the week after a glittering decade in charge

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PA

Yet Guardiola insisted he is far more interested in the memories he has shared with players, staff and supporters than any physical monument.

"I have no idea about that," Guardiola said when asked about the possibility of the North Stand bearing his name.

"They don't have to do anything, honestly.

Man City are planning a special stadium tribute for Pep Guardiola

Man City are planning a special stadium tribute for Pep Guardiola

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PA

Five things to know about Man City boss Pep Guardiola

Five things to know about Man City boss Pep Guardiola

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GETTY/GB NEWS

"The important thing in our lives is when you look back and say 'wow' and you can do it with a big smile, that is good."

Despite repeatedly maintaining that he intends to remain for the final year of his contract, reports emerged on Monday night claiming Guardiola will leave this summer, 12 months earlier than expected.

Former assistant and current Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has been linked as a potential successor should Guardiola decide to walk away.

That would make Tuesday night's clash with Bournemouth his penultimate match in charge, with Sunday's home game against Aston Villa potentially serving as an emotional farewell.

Guardiola also reflected on the impending departures of Bernardo Silva and John Stones ahead of tonight's fixture with the Cherries.

Pep Guardiola has won 17 major trophies, and 20 overall, during his time with Man City

Pep Guardiola has won 17 major trophies, and 20 overall, during his time with Man City

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PA

"We spoke about last days and said, 'What a time we've lived,'" he said.

"When you are an old, old grandfather and you look back and see how your life was, you can laugh for the memories."

Guardiola then offered one final tease over his future, adding with a smile: "Maybe when I extend my contract by two more years I will look back and say, 'How nice it's been.'"

City remain in the mix for title glory, though Arsenal will be crowned champions if they beat Crystal Palace on Sunday.