Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola labels potential managerial switch as “over forever” | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola has ruled out the possibility of returning to one of his former clubs in future beyond life as Manchester City manager.

While speculation surrounding Guardiola’s future beyond Manchester City remains a persistent topic, particularly with his contract due to expire in the summer of 2027, the Catalan has now firmly closed the door on one possible route.

The 54-year-old spent four trophy-laden years at the helm of Barcelona’s first team between 2008 and 2012, winning three La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions Leagues with a squad widely regarded as one of the greatest club sides in football history.

However, since stepping away from the Camp Nou role over a decade ago, Pep Guardiola has made clear his desire not to revisit that chapter. In the years since, Guardiola has achieved enormous success at Manchester City, guiding the club to 18 trophies including a historic treble in the 2022/23 season.

Despite his deep emotional connection to both the club and the city of Barcelona, the Catalan coach has consistently emphasised the importance of moving forward, both professionally and personally.

Speaking to the media this week, Manchester City’s legendary head coach was quizzed on the possibility of a return to the role of head coach at his boyhood club. However, his response was very firm.

“It’s over. Over forever,” the 54-year-old insisted to reporters. He continued, “It was very beautiful, but it’s over.”

Guardiola’s blunt remarks may come as a disappointment to some Barcelona supporters, especially during a period of transition at the Camp Nou following the departure of Xavi and the arrival of Hansi Flick.

While fans of the La Liga giants have often dreamed of a future reunion, Pep Guardiola’s stance suggests he sees his spell at Barcelona as complete – a special but closed chapter in his managerial career.

For Manchester City, Pep Guardiola’s clarity offers a form of reassurance. The Catalan’s commitment to the club remains evident despite ongoing questions about his long-term future. Guardiola has frequently stated that he is not the type of manager to stay in football endlessly and has suggested he will take a step back when the time feels right.

However, with his current Manchester City contract running until the end of the 2026/27 season, fans at the Etihad Stadium can perhaps reasonably expect at least two more campaigns under his leadership.

What happens beyond that point remains open; Pep Guardiola has hinted at an eventual departure from management altogether, though international football or a move into sporting directorship roles has previously been mooted. There is also interest from federations such as Brazil and even whispers from MLS circles about future possibilities.