Man City expecting Pep Guardiola to LEAVE in 2025 with 'succession planning' set to begin on back of FA Cup final defeat to Man Utd

The Daily Mail reports that City feat next season will be the Spaniard's last as manager at the Etihad Stadium, with his current deal ending in mid-2025. The Citizens will give the former Barcelona boss space to make a final decision on his future and do want him to extend his stay, but they are expecting him to walk away from his post as it stands. The report adds that "succession planning will begin" on the back of City's FA Cup final loss to Manchester United.

Guardiola has arguably been City's best-ever signing, leading them to six Premier League crowns, two FA Cups, four League Cups, the Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, and more. If he does go in 2025, that will leave a huge chasm at City and the Premier League, too. There is no doubt the 53-year-old will go down as one of the greatest managers of all time.

This news comes just over 24 hours after after City's 2-1 FA Cup final loss to rivals Manchester United, which saw them fail in their bid to secure a back-to-back league and cup double. Guardiola also recently admitted he is "closer to leaving than staying", but has confirmed he will still be on the touchline for City next term.

Guardiola, who enjoyed City's Premier League title celebrations with an open-top bus tour in Manchester on Sunday, will head off on his summer holidays before preparing for what could be his last season at the club.