Pep Guardiola has surprised the entire world with his latest confession. In a conversation with former footballer Gilberto Silva, he has publicly announced the date of his departure from Manchester City: when his current contract ends. At the end of 2024, the Santpedor native renewed his contract for two more seasons, coinciding with the end of the 2026-27 season.
Speaking on ESPN Brasil, he was blunt: "After my contract with City, I'm going to stop. I'm sure. I don't know if I'm going to retire, but I'm going to take a break".
Joan Laporta Has His Sights Set on Pep Guardiola's Return to Barça
Joan Laporta, President of FC Barcelona, has an ambitious plan for 2027: to bring Pep Guardiola back to the blaugrana club. However, this time, Guardiola wouldn't return as a coach, but in a strategic role overseeing La Masia, the academy that has been the cradle of great talents in world soccer.
Laporta is not oblivious to current events... and considers that this will be the ideal moment to have him in a new project that seeks to strengthen the club's identity and philosophy. The idea is for Pep Guardiola to contribute his experience and vision to enhance the development of young talents at La Masia, thus ensuring the future of FC Barcelona.
To carry out this plan, Laporta will have to win the club's presidential elections in 2026. Initially, he doesn't intend to use his name in the campaign, although everything could change if Guardiola gives his approval. In any case, we are talking about a moment too early to ensure any type of scenario.
Pep Guardiola: Many Possible Scenarios
Guardiola's return, although in a different role, would be a strategic move to consolidate Barça's sports structure and reinforce its commitment to young talent and the play style that has characterized the club. Joan Laporta plans to try and would give the Catalan all the facilities to achieve his desired return to Barcelona.
In any case, the current Manchester City manager hasn't made any decisions about what he will do in the future. All options are on the table, and he doesn't rule out continuing to coach after taking another sabbatical year.