Pep Guardiola has announced his intention to take a break from his management career following his departure from Manchester City, although he is uncertain about the timing of his retirement.
In November, Guardiola committed to a two-year contract extension, ensuring his stay with the team lasts until June 2027.
At that point, the 54-year-old will have dedicated 11 years to City, having previously led Barcelona for four years and Bayern Munich for three.
“After my time with City, I’m going to take a break. I’m certain of that,” Guardiola explained to ESPN, outside sources confirm.
“I cannot say if I will retire for good, but I will definitely take a pause.”
During an interview with Sky Sports on Friday, Guardiola emphasized that he might not exit City once his current contract concludes.
“I never stated that I’m leaving now or at the season’s end or when my contract expires,” he clarified.
“I mentioned that whenever my time here concludes, whether in one, two, three, four, or five years, I will take a break.
“I’m not retiring; I’m just taking a break. What I mean is that after my time here wraps up, I will step away for a while.”
Guardiola has led the most triumphant era in City’s history, with his squad claiming six out of the last nine Premier League titles, in addition to the club’s maiden Champions League and a treble in the 2022-23 season.
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This season, City has struggled to match their earlier success, currently sitting in fourth place in the standings with four matches remaining.
“How I’d like to be remembered, I’m unsure,” Guardiola reflected. “I hope people remember me in their own way.
“Every coach aspires to win to leave a lasting legacy, but I believe that fans of Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and City enjoyed watching my teams compete.
“I think we should not be overly concerned with how we’ll be remembered.
“When we pass away, our families may mourn for a few days, and then that’s it — we fade from memory. In coaching, some are outstanding and others less so; what matters is that the great ones leave a longer impression.”
City still has the opportunity to conclude the season with a trophy, as they are set to face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final on May 17.
