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Pep Guardiola has expressed his full confidence that Manchester City are in an excellent position to continue achieving success long after his departure.

The iconic Spanish manager concluded his remarkable decade-long tenure with the Club on Sunday, marking the end of an era filled with glory and silverware.

Despite City’s 2-1 home defeat to Aston Villa in his final match, the 2025–26 season was another memorable chapter, as the team secured both the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup while finishing second in the Premier League.

Manchester City now look ahead to a new chapter without Guardiola — the man who delivered 20 trophies and led the Club through its most successful period in history.

In his final press conference as City manager, Guardiola spoke with absolute assurance that the Club’s foundations remain strong and that success will persist well into the future.

He also emphasised that his successor would receive complete trust and backing from the City leadership.

“Because they are persistent and know exactly what they want to achieve,” Guardiola said when asked why he was optimistic about City’s future direction.

“They are perfectly aware that competition is fierce, both domestically and across Europe.

“Every trophy we win is never taken for granted. We lifted one final against Arsenal and another against Chelsea — both are top sides.

“We also faced Aston Villa, who won the Europa League and are an excellent team.”

Guardiola had a heartfelt message for the fans: “To all our supporters, I just want to say — enjoy every single moment. Don’t wait for a Champions League trophy to feel happiness; savour the journey.”

He continued, “I know the players here will achieve great things. I’m certain of it.”

Reflecting on the transition to come, Guardiola added, “When the Club informs me who my successor is, I’ll call him. I’ll tell him what I said yesterday — be yourself.”

“The Club will always support you unconditionally — that’s the greatest compliment anyone can receive.”

“Every manager who has been here has been fortunate to work with Txiki, and now Hugo, Ferran, and especially Khaldoon — all of them have contributed immensely.”

“Be true to yourself, and know that you’ll be protected during difficult times, more than at any other club.”

“Stay creative, stay free in your ideas, and work hard.”

“When we first arrived here, my message was always the same — focus on winning the next game. Whether it’s a League One opponent in the Carabao Cup or anyone else, just try to win and move forward.”

“That’s the best way to build something lasting.”

“Knowing the people here, I’m sure that will continue. Everything will be fine. Absolutely everything.”

To celebrate the achievements of Manchester City’s men’s, women’s, and academy teams during the 2025–26 season, the Club has confirmed that an open-top bus parade will take place on Monday, 25th May. The celebrations will continue with a special event titled ‘The After Party’ at Co-op Live.

Event Information

Date: Monday, 25 May

Doors Open: 15:00 (UK)

Parade Show Starts: 16:00 (UK)

Final Entry: 18:00 (UK)

Player Arrival at Co-op Live: 18:30 (UK)

Event Ends: 20:00 (UK)