Pep Guardiola will step down as Manchester City manager after the season’s final Premier League clash with Aston Villa, a decision that follows a clause in his contract allowing an early exit. The announcement is expected next week, with City’s staff and players already preparing for the transition.

Former Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has already agreed to take the helm, with The Athletic and talkSPORT reporting the move. Maresca is set to inherit a squad that has won three titles under Guardiola, and his arrival signals a new era for the club’s tactical identity.

City’s 2023‑24 campaign ended with a 2‑1 victory over Villa, cementing the team’s place in the Champions League. Guardiola’s departure will leave a managerial void that Maresca must fill while maintaining the club’s high expectations and competitive edge across Europe and the domestic league.

Meanwhile, West Ham faces pressure to raise over £100m through sales if relegated, while Everton and Aston Villa target Newcastle’s William Osula. The FA plans to review Youth Cup staging rules after a row between the Manchester clubs, adding further turbulence to the season’s closing weeks.