Pep Guardiola Set to Leave Manchester City: Five Players Who Could Follow Him Out

Pep Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City at the end of the 2025-26 season marks the end of an era in English football. The Catalan manager leaves with the highest trophies-per-season rate in football history, surpassing even Sir Alex Ferguson, having transformed Manchester City into one of the most dominant teams English football has ever seen.

Guardiola’s legacy at City is extraordinary. During his tenure, the club won multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, League Cups, and most importantly the Champions League in 2023. The style of football he established was influential far beyond Manchester, with teams around the world attempting to replicate his possession-based approach.

His departure could trigger a significant squad overhaul. Several star players who were attracted to City specifically by Guardiola’s presence may seek new challenges. Players who have spent their entire peak seasons under Guardiola’s system may find it difficult to adapt to a different tactical approach from his successor.

Among those who could follow Guardiola out of the club are key creative midfielders who flourished under his system. These players’ value has never been higher, and with Guardiola’s departure, City may be open to sales that generate significant funds for rebuilding under a new manager.

Defensive players who were signed specifically for Guardiola’s high-line, possession-based system may find themselves less suited to a different tactical approach. A new manager may want to play with a deeper defensive line or a more direct attacking style, rendering some current starters less ideal for the new system.

City’s recruitment strategy will need to adapt. Guardiola had specific requirements for every position, and the club’s recruitment was built around finding players who fit his system. A new manager will have different requirements, meaning the squad built over Guardiola’s tenure may need significant remodeling.

Manchester City face a rebuild without their architect. The next manager will inherit a squad of exceptional quality but will need to put their own stamp on the team. The challenge of following Guardiola is immense any successor will be judged against the impossibly high standards he established. City’s ability to navigate this transition will determine whether they remain at English football’s summit or begin a period of decline.