Man City set Pep Guardiola deadline for final decision on future after legendary boss admits he could leave in 2025

Since arriving at Manchester City in 2016, Guardiola has transformed the club into a dominant force in English and European football. Under his leadership, City have secured 15 major trophies, including six Premier League titles. And unsurprisingly, the club's hierarchy is eager for the 53-year-old to commit to a new deal after an unprecedented era of success - but Guardiola's departure seems increasingly likely.

Guardiola’s close relationship with City's director of football, Txiki Begiristain, ensures that he has the freedom to decide how and when he leaves. According to ESPN, Guardiola is reportedly leaning towards exiting after the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. But the club would like a definitive decision by Christmas to allow ample time for succession planning.

Following a 3-1 victory over West Ham, which secured a record fourth successive Premier League title, Guardiola admitted he is "closer to leaving than staying." He also expressed feelings of fatigue and a lack of motivation to prepare for another season, suggesting that the physical and mental demands of the role are taking their toll.

Sources indicate to ESPN that Guardiola is unlikely to seek another job in club management once he leaves City. Instead, he has expressed a desire to manage a national team at a major tournament with the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, presenting a tantalizing opportunity for the Spaniard to fulfill this ambition.

City are acutely aware of the challenge that replacing Guardiola will pose. His impact on the club extends beyond the trophies won as he has reshaped the team's playing style and brought a new level of professionalism. The club is keen to have as much time as possible to identify and assess potential replacements, understanding the magnitude of the task ahead. This transition period will be crucial, not only in terms of retaining the club's competitive edge but also in preserving the culture and philosophy that Guardiola has instilled.